PlayVS Extends Zippy’s Presenting Sponsorship for HEI 2027

PlayVS has renewed Zippy’s role as presenting sponsor for the Hawaiʻi Esports Invitational, which will return to Oʻahu for a three-day event in February 2027. Zippy’s will maintain on-site catering and partner activation placements while PlayVS stages collegiate competition, high school showcases, industry panels and community service projects.

The 2027 program will conclude with the PlayVS College League invitational featuring Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Zippy’s presenting rights include catering integration and branded activations across the multi-day schedule.

The renewal follows metrics from the February 2026 edition. PlayVS reported the 2026 event drew 1,234 live attendees, a 35% year-over-year increase, and generated more than 26 million digital impressions, a 225% year-over-year rise.

PlayVS’s head of partnerships, Charles O’Donnell, thanked Zippy’s for its support and added: “We’re incredibly grateful for Zippy’s continued support of the Hawaiʻi Esports Invitational and its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students, schools, and the broader community. Their partnership has helped this event grow into something truly special, and we’re excited to bring it back for another year. We look forward to building on that momentum in 2027 and delivering an even more impactful experience on Oʻahu.”

The renewal comes amid other commercial activity at PlayVS. One week before the HEI announcement, PlayVS confirmed a renewed agreement with Emerge Apparel as the official jersey provider across its middle school, high school and college programs, supplying custom team wear, design services and dedicated online storefronts.

Organizers plan to finalize venue and programming details for HEI 2027 in the coming months, including career panels and local projects intended to connect students with collegiate opportunities and industry pathways.