The inaugural Venezuela Gaming Expo, originally scheduled for August 12-14, has been postponed to early 2027. The decision follows twin earthquakes that struck the country on June 24, resulting in significant casualties and infrastructure damage.
SCCG Management, led by CEO Stephen A. Crystal, announced the delay to prioritize safety. The conference was set to be the first international gathering for the nation's gaming sector, bringing together regulators, operators, and banking partners in Caracas.
Organizers have requested industry support for rescue operations. A list of recommended charities includes the Red Cross, UNICEF, and the United Nations Humanitarian Fund for Venezuela. The event aims to highlight a market of nearly 29 million people that has remained largely isolated due to economic and political factors.
Corporate Relief Efforts
Established operators are contributing to emergency response. Hard Rock International is providing financial aid and food distribution. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation and Hard Rock Bet are contributing $60,000 to World Central Kitchen to supply approximately 15,000 meals.
In Caracas, Hard Rock Cafe staff are preparing roughly 1,000 meals daily for residents and emergency workers. The company stated that community support remains a focus during the crisis.
The June 24 seismic events have caused widespread disruption across the region. The death toll has risen to 2,295, with more than 11,000 injuries reported.