Calgary’s first esports arena opens at Bow Valley College

A 3,500 square foot esports arena with state-of-the-art technology opened its doors at Calgary’s Bow Valley College (BVC) Wednesday.

The post-secondary institution says the new 70-seat arena is a hub for competition, innovation, and game development.

The $5 million facility is the first of it’s kind in the city, and features 40 competition ready gaming stations, two full motion-rigged racing stimulators, a broadcast suite, and a dedicated varsity esports training room.

“We’re proud of the facility we’ve created here, but even more proud of the contribution it will make to the future of Calgary’s esports and digital entertainment industry,” said Dr. Misheck Mwaba, President and CEO of Bow Valley College. “We exist to give students the skills they need to take their talents and dreams and apply them to careers that grow our province.”

BVC says the arena will be used to host tournaments, test game play, and as a workspace for the college’s accelerator programs.

A minimum of 18 companies each year will be supported in building products and services, and taking their ideas to market. according to the school. There are currently 20 business enrolled in the Fall 2024 accelerator term.

Accelerators can include game developers, content creators, coaching and league businesses.

“The facilities that come together here will allow students in our Esports Business Management Program to get hands on experience in all aspects of the business, including broadcasting,” said Eddie Sargent, Associate Dean of the Chiu School of Business.

BVC’s Digital Entertainment Nexus got $5.5 million in funding from the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) last year, money that was separate from the arena, but allows for the training of 675 people and growth of 125 companies by 2028.

This investment will give access to programs in 3D animation, game development, esports, virtual reality, podcasting and more. OCIF says the funding is meant to drive innovation, expand career opportunities, foster entrepreneurial ventures in the creative sector, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth and diversification.

“We’re driving disruptive growth by thinking beyond traditional industries. The opening of BVC’s esports arena is a prime example of how we’re fostering innovation and capturing investment in sectors that are reshaping the future of our economy,” said Brad Parry, President and CEO of Calgary Economic Development and CEO, OCIF.

Luke Azevedo, Vice-President of Creative Industries, Operations and Film Commissioner with Calgary Economic Development calls the opening of the arena a “game-changing moment” that will spark growth and investment in the city’s digital media and entertainment arts sector.

Canada’s gaming industry is worth $5.5 billion, according to the school.