In this special Q&A, business leader and engineer Milo Borissov gives us his insights on the future of gaming and entertainment, and what makes his home country Bulgaria one of the best places to nurture new companies in Eastern Europe:
- You’ve successfully ventured into multiple industries, from gaming to sports to culture. What is it about these fields that attracts you, and how do you envision their future?
Play and gaming are deeply ingrained in all of us from a young age. Through play, we learn about the world, connect, and have fun. This fundamental human activity inspired me to explore gaming and entertainment on a larger scale. As for the future, I envision these industries continuing to evolve, offering people even richer and more engaging experiences that foster both joy and connection.
- How did your early experiences in Bulgaria, especially in technology and engineering, shape your approach as an entrepreneur and innovator?
Bulgaria has been a fantastic environment to start a business, with a strong culture of innovation, a desire for growth, and a spirit of learning. I was fortunate to have the right education and perfect timing to start my journey here. My experiences taught me to recognize opportunities and connect the dots, which has shaped my approach as an entrepreneur and innovator.
- You’re one of the pioneers of online gaming in Eastern Europe. What challenges did you face breaking into this industry, and what kept you motivated through the years?
Every new industry comes with its own challenges, and gaming was no exception. At first, we were exploring uncharted territory, but I believed strongly in myself and my team. Bulgaria’s excellent internet infrastructure and wealth of IT talent were also key factors that made the journey more achievable, helping us establish a foundation in the region.
- Your support of the Sport in Bulgaria Foundation is well-known. What role do you believe sports play in shaping society, and what are your long-term goals for the foundation?
Sport is deeply embedded in human society; it’s a powerful force that encourages positive competition and personal growth. I believe sports drive societal progress by motivating people to reach their potential. Through the Sport in Bulgaria Foundation, my long-term goal is to continue supporting this drive, creating opportunities for growth, unity, and inspiration across communities.
- You’ve also ventured into supporting arts and culture, sponsoring music productions and even creating your own music label. How does your love for music influence your work, and what message do you hope to send through these cultural initiatives?
Music has been a passion of mine since childhood—I play the piano, and the arts have always elevated my spirit and mind. Through sponsoring music and supporting the arts, I hope to inspire others, sharing messages of creativity and resilience that resonate universally. These initiatives allow me to give back to the cultural landscape and enrich it for future generations.
- As a business leader with experience in multiple countries, including the UAE and Germany, how do you see your role in fostering international partnerships and promoting Bulgarian culture globally?
Bulgaria is a prime location for business with its strategic position close to both Europe and the Middle East, advanced infrastructure, strong IT community, and a tradition of international business. Additionally, Bulgaria’s rich history and culture deserve to be known globally. Coming from one of the oldest and culturally rich regions in Europe, I feel a deep sense of pride in sharing Bulgaria’s heritage with the world.
- How do you plan to position your platform ‘Game Zone’ and services in the UAE market, considering the recent regulatory changes and your global expertise?
We aim to leverage our extensive global experience and the strong market position of one of our publicly listed companies within the group. With the recent regulatory changes in the UAE as of June 2024, we are actively exploring opportunities to obtain a license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. This strategic move aligns with our confidence in achieving success in the UAE market.
- Many describe you as a ‘visionary’ – what does being a visionary mean to you, and how do you balance innovation with social responsibility in your businesses?
For me, being a visionary means seeing potential where others may not and remaining committed to creating something of lasting value. Balancing innovation with social responsibility is crucial; every venture I undertake is designed with the community in mind. I believe that success is only meaningful if it uplifts people, promotes growth, and respects ethical boundaries. By aligning my businesses with these principles, I aim to make an impact that benefits society as a whole.
- Looking forward, what legacy do you hope to leave behind for future generations, both in Bulgaria and internationally, in terms of entrepreneurship, sports, and cultural impact?
My hope is to leave a legacy that inspires future generations to embrace innovation, courage, and resilience. In Bulgaria and beyond, I aim to create opportunities for growth in entrepreneurship, promote sports as a positive force for change, and champion the arts to keep culture alive and evolving. By supporting these fields, I hope to contribute to a future where people are empowered to explore their potential and create a better world for themselves and others.
Truly, nothing can be invented or improved upon without being open to change. By embracing the changes in the landscape, Milo Borissov opened up channels not just for his company but for his country in order to create more opportunities in the fields he has chosen to take a deep dive in. This exact type of vision and determination is what makes Borissov a visionary worthy of his place in the industry.
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