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In recent years, around €1.9 million has been invested in developing esports in Schleswig-Holstein - a path that the [E-Sport-Verband Schleswig-Holstein](/company/e-sport-verband-schleswig-holstein) (EVSH; Schleswig-Holstein E-Sports Association) has helped shape and implement successfully.

"What the state of Schleswig-Holstein has achieved in recent years is unique in Germany, and we are proud to have played a part in this success," explains Phillip Ebben, Chairman and Managing Director of EVSH. "The 2025 State Championships are impressive proof of the effectiveness of this support, not only in sport, but also in youth development, media education, and community work."

With over 1,800 people attending in person, more than 4,600 viewers watching the live stream, and over a million social media impressions, this year's Esports State Championships in Neumünster were a success.

Daniela Stahl, Chief Financial Officer and Project Manager at EVSH, said: "These championships are much more than just a tournament - they are a vibrant celebration of digital youth culture. The support provided by the state, the Schleswig-Holstein Sparkassen, and numerous volunteers has made this growth possible."

Dr Oliver Daum, Deputy Chairman of the EVSH, emphasises: "The professionalisation of esports in Germany requires strong regional associations with regional roots and political connections. Schleswig-Holstein took responsibility for this early on and is demonstrating how voluntary commitment, structural support and mutual networking can have a lasting impact. This benefits not only esports itself, but also areas such as securing skilled workers, media education and youth work."

The network created by the state comprises the Landeszentrum für E-Sport und Digitalisierung (LEZ.SH) in Kiel and four regional centres. This network provides spaces for digital interaction and educational concepts. The report emphasises the importance of media literacy, prevention, and physical activity - all of which are firmly anchored in the EVSH's projects. Funding has been allocated to state championships and training courses for esports coaches, among other things. Plans for the second half of the year include launching a state esports league and a youth league for e-football.

The association expressly supports the federal government's plans to recognise esports as a non-profit activity in future. "This recognition is long overdue," said Ebben. "Esports has long been a socially relevant area - educationally, culturally and economically."

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Successful Results for Esports Funding in Schleswig-Holstein, State Esports League Planned