SBC Summit Reveals First Pitch Competition Finalists

Lisboa.- August 20, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com  SBC announced the five startups that will compete in the 2025 edition of First Pitch , presented by Soft2Bet Invest and supported by Xanada Investments .

Already a staple of SBC events, the competition highlights emerging startups with investor-ready projects, giving them the chance to impress a panel of independent judges.

Finalists will face off on the Technology Stage at the SBC Summit on Thursday, September 18, pitching their proposals for a prize package valued at over €90,000 to accelerate their growth.

This year’s finalists are:

  • AIstats – live football scores app with AI-powered predictions, offering real-time updates and data-driven insights.
  • Betpass – a company that redefines the way iGaming operators work with affiliates, using intelligent technology to connect, monitor and expand partnerships end-to-end.
  • ChatBet – an AI-powered platform that allows customers to place bets via WhatsApp or Telegram, without needing to access a bookmaker’s app or website.
  • LiveDuel – a sports prediction platform where fans can make real-time predictions during live events. Using blockchain technology, it connects global prize pools and allows creators to form communities and share rewards.
  • Nandemo Draft Co. – a social betting and fantasy sports service that supports global betting partners in entering the Japanese market.

The winner will be chosen by a panel of experts including Martin Collins (Chief Business Development Officer at Soft2Bet), Lloyd Danzig (Managing Partner at Sharp Alpha), Dee Maher (La Royale Group), Mark Phillip (CEO of Metabet), and Andrew Reader (Partner at Velo Capital Partners). The competition will be hosted by Jesse Learmonth (Founder of The Betting Startups Podcast).

Martin Collins , First Pitch judge and Chief Business Development Officer at Soft2Bet, said: “The SBC First Pitch is an exceptional platform to showcase the next generation of innovators shaping the future of betting, gaming, and entertainment. At Soft2Bet Invest, we are committed to supporting bold founders with disruptive ideas and a scalable vision.”

“This competition goes beyond capital—it offers strategic partnerships, expert product support, and the backing needed to take the winning company to the next stage of growth,” Collins added.

The winner will receive a prize package valued at over €90,000, including:

  • Are You Watching This? – One year of API access to MetaBet sports data and betting insights, worth €42,000.
  • SBC Events – 3x3m booth, sponsorship mention and four free tickets to the SBC Summit 2026 , valued at €15,000.
  • SBC Media – Six months of advertising on industry platforms, newsletter insertions, and two special editorials promoting the business, valued at €11,000.
  • AWS – €10,000 credits to support the company.
  • Square in the Air – One month of personalized brand design support, valued at €9,500.
  • Vegas Kings – Exclusive website redesign, no value €3,000.
  • Game On – Preparation and distribution of two press releases, an interview with an American industry publication, a mini video interview for social media, and inclusion in Game On newsletters, valued at €2,700.

The public will be able to follow the First Pitch competition on the Technology Stage, on Thursday, September 18, from 3 pm to 4 pm, at the Lisbon International Fair (FIL).

Tickets for SBC Summit 2025 are available here . SBC offers three ticket options – VIP Event Pass , Expo+ Pass , and Expo Only Pass . 

The Expo Only Pass does not include access to conference panels. 

The Group Discount Pass offers a €200 discount for groups of three or more people. 

On September 15th, SBC will host a charity football event in Lisbon featuring Brazilian and international football legends. Secure your ticket today at https://www.legendscharitygame.com and be a part of this story.

Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com

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