The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) has introduced a landmark initiative designed to bring structure and accountability to one of the most overlooked parts of competitive gaming.
Named the Certified Talent Agent Scheme, this program officially certifies individuals and agencies that represent professional esports players, giving them a trusted seal of approval. The goal is to protect players from unethical representation and ensure that their business dealings remain fair and transparent.
For a long time, the esports scene has operated with little oversight regarding player agents. Many professionals, especially younger players, have faced challenges navigating complex contracts and negotiations without proper guidance.
ESIC’s new certification works as a professional standard: agents who pass the program are recognized for following ethical practices and maintaining high industry standards. For players, this serves as a reliable way to identify trustworthy representation when building their careers.
The first two agencies to be officially certified are Sports Entertainment Group (SEG) and Prodigy Agency. SEG’s Rowan Stroo highlighted the need for this initiative, stating that regulation in gaming remains limited in many areas, including talent management. Similarly, Prodigy Agency’s Jerome Coupez stressed that the absence of oversight has exposed players to unnecessary risks, making ESIC’s move essential for player protection.
ESIC’s CEO, Stephen Hanna, described the program as a major step toward professionalizing esports talent representation. He noted that creating an accreditation pathway for agents fills a long-standing gap in the industry.
Although working with certified agents isn’t mandatory, players and teams now have access to a verified list of professionals who meet recognized standards. ESIC, however, advises players to still do their due diligence before choosing representation.
This initiative builds on ESIC’s ongoing efforts since 2020 to introduce ethical standards for talent agents. The official launch marks a turning point for esports professionalism, aiming to ensure that the business side of gaming keeps pace with the competitive scene’s rapid growth. By bringing certified agents into the fold, ESIC is helping create a safer and more transparent environment for players across the global esports ecosystem.
