The sponsor ecosystem is the economic engine that keeps most of esports running. Teams sell jersey placements, social media promotions, and event activations to brands seeking access to the coveted 18-to-34 demographic. Endemic sponsors like gaming peripheral companies were the early adopters, but non-endemic brands like BMW, Red Bull, and luxury fashion houses have entered the space as esports viewership has grown. The relationship is symbiotic but fragile: sponsors need measurable ROI, teams need funding, and both need the audience to stay engaged. When sponsors pull out, as many did during economic downturns, the ripple effects can collapse entire organizations.