By now, you are probably aware that SBC’s Malta-based event, the CasinoBeats Summit, was rebranded to SBC Summit Malta.
Other than a swanky new name—and let’s face it, it does have a nice ring to it—the rebrand has ushered in several new features to the event. One of the main beneficiaries of this evolution is AFFILIATES!
Affiliates now have even more networking opportunities to capitalise on (both on the expo floor and at dedicated events), can take advantage of an expanded educational programme, gain deeper insights into key European markets, and attend an enhanced awards ceremony, among other exciting features.
With so much on offer, this blog will break down some of the notable features that make SBC Summit Malta, a must-attend event for affiliates.
MEETING OPERATORS AND ACCESS TO EUROPE
For affiliates, attending industry events like SBC Summit Malta often involves following a simple yet effective three-stage plan:
- Locate and connect with leading operators
- Strengthen your bond with the operator’s affiliate manager
- Secure a new partnership or negotiate a better deal with existing partners
Sounds straightforward, right? Well, it just got even easier.
SBC Summit Malta will host 5,500 attendees, of which 2,000 are set to be operator representatives (that is over a third of attendees!)
Add to that the fact that 39% of attendees will be key decision-makers (think C-level executives, heads of departments, and directors), and it’s clear why this event is a pivotal platform for affiliates looking to build strong partnerships.
But WAIT! There’s even more…
The recent rebrand has expanded the scope of the event, positioning SBC Summit Malta as a crucial gateway to key European markets and brands.
What Does This Mean for Affiliates?
- More agenda content covering sports betting, payments, and European market regulations, in addition to casino-focused and marketing/affiliation topics—giving you a more comprehensive understanding of the entire ecosystem.
- A stronger presence of European-based companies in attendance.
- A wider range of European operators to connect with at networking events.
So, if you’re an affiliate looking to expand your footprint across Europe, SBC Summit Malta will host the industry profiles needed to elevate your game!
LEVERAGING TICKETS
Now, you may think that including ticket types this early in a blog post about affiliation is a shameless sales push, but believe us when we say that understanding SBC Summit Malta’s various access levels can define your event experience.
Attendees can secure their spot at SBC Summit Malta through four distinct passes – some of which can be utilised by affiliates to bring desired leads to the event and maximise their networking opportunities.
- AFFILIATE PASS: First and foremost, affiliates can gain access to SBC Summit Malta for FREE by applying for a complimentary pass. Yes, you read correctly: affiliates can attend the event for FREE, an instant win! Affiliates, click here to apply!
- OPERATOR PASS: Just like Batman needs Robin, affiliates need operators, and at SBC Summit Malta, operators can also apply for a complimentary pass! This not only ensures a strong operator presence at the event but can also be leveraged by affiliates to bring in desired leads! Operators can apply here.
- EXPO+ PASS: Our newly introduced Expo+ Pass provides access to the exhibition floor and conference content for just €95 – a budget-friendly option for suppliers and service providers. For affiliates, this means even more networking opportunities with key partners across the supply chain. Click here to purchase your Expo+ Pass. Word of warning: The Expo+ Pass does not include access to networking events, so those looking for the full experience may want to consider the Full Access Pass instead.
- EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT (FULL ACCESS PASS): This limited-time discount (ending March 28) grants delegates access to all networking opportunities, conference content and product showcases across the event. And did we mention it’s for the discounted price of €400!? Although this pass won’t bring in operators, with an incredible €200 saving, we thought it was worth mentioning! Click here to secure your Early Bird Pass.
EDUCATIONAL CONTENT
SBC Summit Malta will present affiliates with an expansive educational programme, featuring 250 expert speakers across three stages and two workshop rooms!
The dedicated ‘Affiliate’ and ‘Marketing’ tracks will be particularly valuable for affiliates, offering insights into key European markets, strategies for enhancing SEO with innovative technology and AI, and effective ways to leverage affiliate networks for maximum audience reach.
Let’s break down some of the key affiliate-focused panels.
- SEO – Trilogy (SEO for LLMs: Shaping Strategies for the AI-Driven Web – The Rise of Blackhat SEO and Negative SEO attacks: Trends, Tactics, and Defense Strategies for 2024-2025 – The New SEO Reality of 2025: Thriving in a Multichannel World). Read more.
- Explore How Affiliate Networks Drive Growth for Start-Up Affiliates and Operators. Read more.
- Diversify Your Channels Before It Is Too Late! Read more.
- Game Changers: Lessons from Other Industries to Transform Affiliation in 2026. Read more.
Relevant affiliate panels as part of the wider conference include:
- Regulation Deepdive: Germany, Malta, & Italy.
- Navigating Advertising Bans: Gambling Marketing Strategies in Heavily Regulated Markets. Read more.
- Leveraging Big Sporting Events: Influencers, Streamers, and Marketing Impact for Casinos. Read more.
- Combatting Bonus Abuse: Strategies for Awareness, Planning, and Managing Promotions Effectively. Read more.
View the full conference agenda here.
Top Tip: Use the SBC Connect App to view the online agenda, star your favourite sessions and get your educational plan in place! (The app is available one month before the event.)
EXPLORING THE EXHIBITION FLOOR
SBC Summit Malta’s exhibition floor will serve as the beating heart of the event, hosting 75 powerhouse brands from every corner of the industry.
For affiliates, this is the perfect opportunity to explore the latest innovations shaping the industry and connect with top operators, whether at their booth, your booth, or at the show floor’s dedicated networking spaces.
Dedicated networking areas include:
- Synot Games Coffee Bar (F50)
- Casino Bar sponsored by Mascot Games (F80)
- Catering & Refreshments Area (F70) (F95)
- SBC Connect Lounge (F130)
- Xtremepush Networking Lounge (F120)
- Kalamba Games Networking Lounge (F110)
Top Tips to make the most of the exhibition floor:
- Booth Activations: If your brand is exhibiting, make it unforgettable! Engage attendees with interactive activations, exciting prizes, and guest appearances to draw leads directly to you.
- Badges: Take advantage of our colour-coded badge system to easily identify and connect directly with the industry professionals who matter most to you!
- SBC Connect App: Streamline your show floor experience by using our SBC Connect App! Available to download a month before the event (May 2025), this app allows you to navigate the show floor, discover key exhibitors, and plan your networking strategy ahead of the event.
EVENING NETWORKING
Your networking opportunities go beyond the confines of the exhibition floor, as SBC Summit Malta will host a number of evening networking events.
For those with an operator, affiliate, or full-access pass, you will have the chance to attend the following networking events:
- SBC Summit Malta Opening Party on Tuesday (Badge collection possible)
- Official Networking Party on Wednesday
- Official Closing Party, also known as THE INFINITY Malta
With complimentary drinks and canapes, amazing music, and an unforgettable atmosphere, SBC Summit Malta’s evening networking events will provide ample opportunities to strike meaningful conversations with operators and secure those important deals.
Want to make the best of this event? Here are some crucial networking tips.
- Plan Your Meetings in Advance – Identify key people and companies you want to connect with and reach out early to set up meetings. Don’t wait until the last minute!
- Attend Evening Networking Events – These are free for affiliate attendees and offer the perfect setting to build relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. (Keep an eye out for information on our invite-only Affiliate Leaders Dinner.)
- Engage with Speakers & Panelists – Don’t just listen—ask questions, introduce yourself after their session.
- Use the SBC Connect App – Download the app as soon as it’s available to browse attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors. Use it to schedule meetings in advance.
- Join Side Events & Meetups – Many require an RSVP, so check the event schedule and register early to secure your spot.
- Have a Clear Elevator Pitch – Be prepared to introduce yourself concisely—who you are, what you do, and why you’re attending.
- Leverage LinkedIn – Before the event, connect with key attendees and share a post announcing that you’ll be attending. Use event hashtags to increase visibility.
- Be Strategic on the Show Floor – Plan your booth visits, mark down key exhibitors, and ensure you maximise your time instead of wandering aimlessly.
- Bring Business Cards (or Digital Contact Info) – Some people still prefer physical cards, but having a QR code to your LinkedIn or website is also a great way to share details quickly.
- Follow Up After the Event – Don’t let good connections go to waste. Send a personal follow-up message to the people you met to keep the conversation going.
SBC AWARDS: RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE
If you’re a casino or sports affiliate that has achieved exceptional growth in the past year, whether through a standout marketing campaign, innovative acquisition strategies, or impressive audience engagement, then SBC Summit Malta is the perfect place to showcase your success.
The SBC Awards Europe, taking place on the final day of SBC Summit Malta (Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Hilton Malta), will now feature a dedicated ‘Affiliates’ category–putting affiliates in the spotlight like never before.
Building on the legacy of the CasinoBeats Summit’s ‘Game Developers Awards,’ this expansion provides the perfect opportunity for affiliates to position themselves as leaders in the affiliate space in front of Europe’s biggest iGaming operators, suppliers, and stakeholders!
How does this work?
The final deadline for entries is Thursday, 3rd April 2025. Both individuals and organisations are welcome to self-nominate or nominate another organisation.
To submit your entry, simply register or log in by clicking the NOMINATE button of the relevant award category.
Once logged in, select your preferred category from the Awards platform and click ‘Process.’ Entries can be edited up until submission, but only submitted entries will proceed to the judging stage.
Participation in the awards is completely free, but if shortlisted, nominees must purchase at least one ticket at the full list price. You can secure your spot for the awards ceremony through four distinct ticket types:
- Individual Ticket: Access to the awards ceremony, with champagne on arrival, a 3-course meal, wine and beer on the table and spirits and mixers served at your table. Purchase your ticket.
- Standard Table: All of the above, with the addition of a VIP table booked for 10 people. Purchase your ticket.
- Premium Awards Table: All of the above, with the addition of company branding on the table and three bottles of complimentary champagne. Purchase your ticket.
- VIP Awards Table: All of the above, with the inclusion of a centrally positioned table, ensuring you are at the heart of the celebrations. Purchase your ticket.
FINAL THOUGHTS
SBC Summit Malta will serve as an instrumental platform for any affiliate seeking success in European markets.
With dedicated networking events, an expansive exhibition floor bringing together every sector of the industry, and tailored educational content, affiliates will have the perfect opportunity to check off their to-do list for the event—from learning something new about yet another Google update to finally meeting that operator who hadn’t been responding to their emails.
