Calgary’s First Esports Arena Opens at Bow Valley College
Innovative Esports Facility Arrives in Calgary
Opening Calgary’s first dedicated esports arena, Bow Valley College provides a modern space to promote gaming, training, and digital entertainment. Comprising 40 gaming stations, two motion-activated racing simulators, a broadcast suite, and a specialized training room, the 3,500-square-foot (325 square meter) complex boasts over $1 million (~£745k) in technological capability.
The arena’s construction was supported by the college, which fits its larger initiatives to promote digital skills and entrepreneurship. To support its Digital Entertainment Nexus, Bow Valley College last year received $5.5 million (~£4.1 million) from the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF). With programs in 3D animation, game development, esports, VR, and podcasting to increase employment options and diversify Calgary’s economy, the money seeks to train 675 individuals and assist the expansion of 125 enterprises by 2028.
With an eye toward developing Calgary’s digital entertainment scene
“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 Bow Valley College President and CEO Misheck Mwaba. Our purpose is to equip students with the tools they need to realize their talents and aspirations and apply them to professions developing our province.
The Esports Strategy of Alberta and National Expansion
Calgary’s project fits a larger pattern in Canada where esports is becoming more and more important in both economic and educational plans. Aiming to provide a strong basis for the province’s esports ecosystem, groups including Calgary Economic Development, Edmonton Screen Industries Office, and the Alberta Esports Association coauthored Alberta’s own Esports Strategy.
Esports is being progressively invested in by educational institutions both inside and outside of the nation since its possibilities go beyond gaming to include job development in digital skills and entrepreneurial possibilities.
