TPG Sports Group, which focuses on educating future sports industry leaders, is seeking applicants for its year-long development program Sports Tank Innovation Studio. The deadline to apply is Dec. 15.
Startups of any stage and geographic location are strongly encouraged to apply. Five will be selected in January 2019 and will not have to relocate to participate in the program.
Building on the success of the previous four years, Charlotte-based TPG Sports Group has expanded its Sports Tank program significantly. The program offers mentorship, resources and exposure to sports technology startups.
Matt Marske, director of operations for TPG Sports Group, explained the impact the program has already had on other startups.
“We've been lucky to have some tremendous companies come through the program and make connections with the executives and influencers in attendance,” Marske explained. “Last week, former participant Matcherino raised a $2.7 million round. Hookit continues to do great things. Physmodo, who received multiple investments at Sports Tank, continues to do great things in the industry as well.”
A major highlight of the program includes the Sports Tank Innovation Studio Demo Day (invitation only), which will take place on Feb. 15 during NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte. For that, TPG is partnering with SportTechie, the world’s leading resource devoted to the intersection of sports and technology. Demo Day is an opportunity for the five companies to showcase their product/technology to a room full of VC's, athletes, executives and other influencers.
TPG Sports Group has always been based in Charlotte, and it has hosted Sports Tank for four years in both Charlotte and New York City.
“To further evolve Sports Tank into the development platform that it is today while kicking it off at All-Star Weekend in Charlotte was a no-brainer,” Marske said. “By working with local organizations for the event, we will be able to not only grow our brand, but the brands of the companies and organizations that help Charlotte thrive.”
Designed as an ongoing initiative, the focus of Sports Tank Innovation Studio is to help startups achieve breakthrough growth by focusing on three key areas:
- Exposure: Showcasing Startup Companies at the NBA All-Star Weekend Demo Day
- Resources: Connecting Startups with Influencers, Investors and Industry Experts
- Mentorship: Hands on Advising and Bootcamp Style Training Retreat
In addition to exposure, startups will be provided with hands-on advising and consulting on business development, partnerships and market strategy. Program participants will receive monthly mentorship in addition to an intensive boot camp retreat at the culmination of year one in Charlotte, NC. Companies will also have access to the Sports Tank network of investors, industry executives and events. Business development will be supported by connecting and exposing startups to influencers (industry experts, athletes) who align with a shared vision.
For additional information and to apply for Sports Tank Innovation Studio visit http://tpgsportsgroup.com/sportstank.
