John Fazio is the chief executive officer of Nerd Street, a pioneering company in the gaming and esports industry. With a deep commitment to making gaming and esports more accessible and inclusive, Fazio has spearheaded initiatives that have had a significant impact on the collegiate gaming ecosystem.
One of Fazio’s proudest achievements at Nerd Street has been the strengthening of the gaming ecosystem at the collegiate level. Through partnerships with universities and the growth of youth summer camps, Nerd Street has been instrumental in creating pathways for players to pursue their gaming dreams while pursuing higher education.
Nerd Street operates gaming facilities around the country, offering high-end gaming PCs and equipment for casual and aspiring pro gamers. These venues serve as community hubs where pro esports teams and players can practice, compete and engage with their fans. Nerd Street also hosts camps and tournaments, providing opportunities for gamers to develop their skills and connect with the gaming community.
Navigating the changing market conditions has been a significant challenge for Nerd Street. Fazio has had to make tough decisions to ensure the company’s future while remaining true to its mission. Despite the obstacles, Nerd Street has adapted by streamlining operations, focusing on in-person events and renewing its commitment to its venue locations. Fazio believes that growing the collegiate gaming and esports scene is vital to the industry’s long-term success, and Nerd Street is actively seeking partnerships with colleges and universities to further this goal.
Fazio recognizes the importance of scaling back and growing sustainably, and he has applied these insights to position Nerd Street for continued growth and success, the company said. Fazio is dedicated to mentoring tech stars and local entrepreneurs, as well as hosting community events at Nerd Street’s headquarters in Philadelphia’s Localhost venue.
Fazio took a significant risk by leaving his established career as a software developer to focus exclusively on gaming. Over time, he found comfort in witnessing the positive outcomes of gaming, such as kids earning college scholarships, gamers forming meaningful relationships and individuals finding fulfilling careers, the company said.
“At first I felt insecure about my level of impact, but over time as our products were responsible for kids getting college scholarships, gamers meeting their spouses and people finding their careers, I found comfort in the immensely positive impact gaming can have on society,” Fazio said.
This is Fazio’s second time on the Titan 100 list.
“I am humbled to be recognized locally as a Philly Titan, which motivates and inspires me to continue to be a leader,” Fazio said. “I think this platform allows me to be an example for aspiring entrepreneurs who can hopefully derive inspiration from my experiences to similarly found new companies and make meaningful contributions to this city and beyond.”
