SBC Summit Tbilisi Fosters Key Regulatory Dialogue and Networking

The SBC Summit Tbilisi returned last week, establishing itself as a key event for the iGaming sector in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Held on July 15 and 16, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, the summit was organized in collaboration with SMH, an international consulting firm specializing in the gaming and sports industry. The attendance of operators, affiliates, suppliers, and regulators highlighted the event's importance for exchanging ideas and creating new partnerships.

The founder and CEO of SBC, Rasmus Sojmark, stated: "Now in its fourth year, the SBC Summit Tbilisi has established itself as the meeting point for gaming in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Not only because of the number of attendees but also due to the quality of the discussions taking place."

A Perfect Balance

Dmitry Starostenkov, CEO of EvenBet Gaming, emphasized the balance achieved at the event due to its size: "The size is perfect. It gives you exposure while allowing for deep and quality conversations with established partners."

The conference program explored the commercial, technological, and regulatory challenges shaping the region, covering topics such as entry into new markets, artificial intelligence, player engagement, sports sponsorship, and executive leadership. Over 70 experts participated, including:

• Giorgi Gvenetadze (COO, Flutter CEE)
• Kaido Ulejev (CEO, Mindcraft)
• David Japaridze (CCO, Setanta Holding)
• Toby Gilbert (CEO and Founder, OnRamp)
• Luka Kobalia (Production Director, Smartsoft)
• Sergiu Petre (Brand Head – Super)
• Sanja Isakov (General Manager – Rizk.rs/Betsson)
• Denis Karpovich (Technical Director, EGT Georgia)
• Levy Andratchniko (former Sales Manager of Sponsorships, AC Milan and Co-founder, Munegu Sport).

David Chikhladze, General Director of Matchday at Setanta Sports, praised the quality of the speakers, asserting that "the quality has been excellent as always."

Dedicated Regulatory Forum

The 2026 program included a dedicated Regulatory Forum, which brought together key figures from various EU countries, as well as from the United States, Georgia, and several Central Asian nations. This space allowed for the exchange of best regulatory practices and fostered cross-border collaboration.

Valerii Vyzhak, Vice President of the National Business Council of Gaming in Ukraine, highlighted the importance of these fresh ideas for his discussions with the Ukrainian government: "Sometimes they are open to smart solutions, and what we find here are smart solutions."

Milica Delevic, Founder of Delewhite, indicated how the forum provided clarity on the different legal frameworks in the region: "Not all markets develop at the same pace, so it's crucial to hear from colleagues with experience in what you're going through as a lawyer in another market."

Innovations and Networking

The exhibition floor allowed emerging startups in the region to showcase their latest products and technologies to industry leaders. Starostenkov appreciated the visibility afforded to the startups, stating: "The good thing about this exhibition floor is that every year I see startups. They are visible; you can come, check them out, and talk to them."

Networking remained a defining feature of the summit, with business discussions continuing beyond the exhibition floor through a social events program, including opening and closing parties, a VIP operators dinner, and a poker tournament.

"It was lovely. After a full day of conference sessions and panels, it was nice to get to know people on a more personal level in a very relaxed and wonderful environment," commented Roxana Dinescu, Head of Marketing Strategy at Super.

Vyzhak also highlighted the role of the SBC Connect app in helping delegates plan meetings prior to their arrival: "SBC Connect is very good. It works well, is fast and efficient, and you can plan in advance what you will do. It works faster than anything else."

Attendees also praised the organization of the event, rating it as "10 out of 10."

Lasha Machavariani, Founder of SMH Global, commented: "The region is evolving rapidly. Success now is defined by local knowledge, trusted relationships, and direct access to regional decision-makers."

The next event on the calendar is the SBC Summit global in Lisbon, from September 29 to October 1, which will bring together 40,000 industry professionals.

International Participation

The active participation of regulators from the U.S. and the EU in the SBC Summit Tbilisi's Regulatory Forum is clear evidence of the event's growing international relevance and influence. Rasmus Sojmark expressed gratitude to the partners of SMH Global, as well as to each speaker, sponsor, exhibitor, and attendee who contributed to the event's success.