VENN, or Video Game Entertainment & News Network, is a new post-cable esports network set to launch in 2020. The organization intends to act as competition to other esports networks, such as Cheddar and ESL.
VENN recently announced that it had already raised $17 million in funding. Upon launch, the organization will broadcast nonstop gaming and esports programs. Content production will take place in both Los Angeles and New York. The organization plans to air 55 hours of original content each week. This will include video game streams, live tournaments, talk shows, and documentaries.
A plethora of powerhouses in the gaming industry have invested into this brand new esports content network. Individual contributors represent companies like G2 Esports, Riot Games, Blizzard Entertainment, and Topgolf Media. In addition, contributing institutions include the likes of BDMI, Reimagined Ventures, and aXiomatic.
More about VENN
Ben Kusin and Ariel Horn are the co-founders and co-CEOs of VENN. Kusin has experience in brand marketing for many video games. Among these are The Sims, F.E.A.R., and Medal of Honor. He was also formerly the head of New Media and Strategic Alliances for Vivendi Universal Games.
Horn has worked greatly to give esports a presence on television and has earned four Emmys throughout his career. He notably earned an Emmy for his coverage of China’s League of Legends World Championship in 2017. In addition, Horn has worked as an executive at NBC Sports and previously led production for BlizzCon.
Here is the full statement about VENN from its own website: “VENN is a new 24/7 post-cable network aimed at gaming, esports and entertainment audiences. Launching in 2020 and broadcasting live from studios in New York and Los Angeles, VENN will be distributed across a broad range of media platforms and offer original programming produced in-house and in partnership with some of the biggest names and creators across industries.”
