This 25-Year-Old Detroit Startup Owner Just Made eSports History

Detroit native Delane Parnell signed one of the most impactful and important deals in eSports history.

The 25-year-old and his startup company, PlayVS (pronounced “play versus”), will be setting the foundation for eSports in high school programs.

This fall eSports will become an official sport sanctioned by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). This organization writes the rules for high school sports and activities according to Inc. When this rule is established, Parnell’s company will provide the online infrastructure including a platform for competitions, statistic compilations, and streaming integrations.

In addition to this, the startup is “on the verge of announcing a record-setting funding round next week.” According to Peter Pham, an early investor, PlayVS will have the largest Series A raised by an African-American-led consumer internet company.

This news is not only great for Parnell but the overall growth and assimilation of the eSports. What was once considered as a “waste of time” in the eyes of some adults, is now becoming a successful revenue generating business.

2Techies with Delane Parnell S2:EP9

This week we talk to Delane Parnell. One of the youngest black VCs in history! He guides us through what’s next, his journey and his favorite drink will surprise you! 2 Techies is a series of candid conversations, usually over beer, featuring entrepreneurs of South Florida’s tech and innovation scene.

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