Leading female gaming execs unveil startup launchpad
Paris Smith, Kelly Kehn and Sue Schneider join forces to provide mentorship and connections to “underrepresented founding teams”
Former Pinnacle CEO Paris Smith, All-in Diversity Project co-founder Kelly Kehn and ex-SBC vice-president Sue Schneider have unveiled a startup launchpad to focus on underrepresented startup leaders.
Defy the Odds will seek out and support emerging talent within the sector to provide them with expert resources, connections and upskilling.
The incubator will have a core focus on “underrepresented founding teams” who will be introduced to expert mentors, investors and partners via the scheme.
The launchpad is open to startups at any stage of growth and is now actively seeking founders looking to tap into the trio’s extensive networks.
According to the co-founders, Defy the Odds’ approach is “rooted in building a strong, collaborative community where founders can access the best resources available, from seed funding to strategic partnerships”.
Smith departed as Pinnacle CEO in May 2023 after leading the business for 17 years. She most recently joined AI-powered startup Rithmm as an adviser.
Kehn, who co-founded the All-in Diversity Project, recently left industry VC firm HappyHour after two years as the firm’s industry relations partner. She also sits on the board of Malta-based operator FUNNZ.
Finally, Schneider recently called time on a six-year stint with trade media and events company SBC, where she most recently served as vice-president of growth and strategy for the Americas.
Speaking exclusively to EGR, Kehn said: “We are thrilled to launch Defy the Odds, which promises to be a catalyst for change in gaming’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“The statistics are clear – 66% of the world’s richest are self-made, yet, only 3% of those entrepreneurs are women. Only 1% of the world’s billionaires are black. This disparity is likely worse across the gaming sector and is a missed opportunity for the entire industry.
“By making pathways to entrepreneurship more inclusive, we are unlocking untapped potential, driving innovation, ensuring growth and setting a precedent across the wider tech landscape.”
Smith added: “Defy the Odds is focused on identifying founders who not only have innovative ideas but also a deep understanding of how to create products that resonate with the market’s future needs. We’re committed to helping these entrepreneurs shape the next generation of gaming experiences.”
Schneider concluded: “We believe that by supporting a diverse range of founders through our network, we will bridge innovation with opportunity and push the boundaries of what’s possible in this industry.”