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PlayVS: A Leader in Scholastic Esports Innovation

On March 18, 2025, PlayVS, the premier platform for scholastic esports in North America, proudly announced its inclusion in Fast Company’s prestigious list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2025. This annual list is known for recognizing organizations that have profoundly impacted their respective industries and cultures
through remarkable innovations. PlayVS has earned its place among other renowned companies like Nvidia, Duolingo, and Waymo, highlighting its dedication to transforming the landscape of esports.

A Commitment to Accessibility

In recent years, PlayVS has taken significant strides to increase accessibility and inclusivity for students engaging in esports. The platform's shift to a free-to-play model has effectively dismantled financial barriers for participation, allowing a greater number of students and schools to join the exciting world of scholastic gaming. Recently, this shift enabled PlayVS to expand its reach to over 68,000 middle schools and high schools across North America. By eliminating entry fees and offering essential resources, PlayVS is bridging the gap and ensuring students from diverse backgrounds can experience the numerous benefits of esports.

Research indicates that esports play a crucial role in enhancing students' social, academic, and mental health. In May 2024, PlayVS released the "Impact of Esports Report," which documented responses from hundreds of esports players and coaches across the US and Canada. The findings revealed that participation in esports fosters socialization, improves academic performance and attendance, and helps students develop a sense of community while honing vital skills in leadership, communication, and teamwork.

Introducing Stadium: A New Era of Digital Competitions

Making waves in the esports arena, PlayVS has introduced "Stadium," a groundbreaking platform that allows anyone to organize and participate in gaming events, regardless of school affiliation. This innovative solution embodies a new era of inclusivity and flexibility in esports by providing students with a competitive environment devoid of strict institutional constraints.

Strong Partnerships and Community Engagement

The growth of PlayVS is further underscored by strategic collaborations with major industry players, including a revitalized partnership with Nintendo of America, which has led to over $2.1 million worth of games and equipment supplied to schools. Additionally, PlayVS is successfully connecting traditional sports and esports through partnerships with notable organizations like the NFL and Premier League, offering students unique gaming challenges and fan engagement opportunities.

"We are honored to be recognized alongside some of the most transformative companies in the world," stated Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS. "Our commitment lies in making esports and gaming accessible to all students, fostering opportunities for academic, social, and mental growth. This accolade is a true testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of our team, partners, and the students we serve. We eagerly anticipate pushing the boundaries of esports further with new innovations, events, and partnerships in 2025."

Understanding the Most Innovative Companies List

The World's Most Innovative Companies list is a centerpiece of Fast Company’s editorial efforts, designed to illuminate organizations that drive progress globally and across various sectors. Editors and writers review thousands of applications through a competitive process to compile this insightful guide, offering a comprehensive look at ongoing innovation and setting the stage for future developments.

"Our list of the Most Innovative Companies provides a global view of present-day innovation and serves as a blueprint for future success," pronounced Brendan Vaughan, Editor-in-Chief of Fast Company. "We celebrate companies that are making meaningful strides—leveraging AI, fostering strong customer connections, and establishing vital competition within their respective fields. In this rapidly evolving world, these companies are leading the charge towards the future."

About PlayVS and Fast Company

PlayVS, pronounced "Play Versus," stands at the forefront of North America’s scholastic esports scene, dedicated to unlocking the benefits of esports for players everywhere. It serves as a unified community where players, coaches, educators, and parents connect through the power of gaming. Furthermore, PlayVS partners with the NFHS Network and the Special Olympics to officially sanction leagues across the United States and Canada.

Fast Company functions as a pivotal media brand focusing on the intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging influential leaders and thinkers to anticipate the future of various industries. Its impact is felt globally through its insightful publications.