Arizona State University’s Global Sport Institute is partnering with the Arizona Coyotes for the third annual Sun Devil Athletics Venture Challenge.
The challenge, co-hosted by ASU’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute and the Global Sport Institute, aims to establish new sports concepts that can be piloted and scaled within organizations’ facilities and programs, according to a news release.
The event also combines previous pitch competitions with Sun Devil Athletics and the Arizona Coyotes to pool even more resources for entrepreneurs.
Applications are now open through April 7 for the competition, which is seeking startups working in areas of venue innovation, immersive technology, fan engagement, athlete training and performance, sustainability, data analytics, and community relations and social impact.
Finalists will compete in a hybrid virtual and live pitch competition in late April at Mullett Arena in Tempe, which is home to the Arizona Coyotes and ASU’s ice hockey team. The winner will receive $50,000 in grand funding, along with pilot and mentorship opportunities, according to the news release.
“Each year the Venture Challenge grows exponentially in both the success of its sport-focused ventures and the scope of exploration and innovation that positively affects the sports industry. I’m proud to say that this year is no different,” Ray Anderson, vice president of University Athletics, said in a statement. “We look forward to further welcoming the Arizona Coyotes into the Arizona State University community as we come together to foster the next generation of sports entrepreneurs.”
ASU and the Arizona Coyotes entered into an agreement last year, allowing the NHL team to temporarily use Mullett Arena for home games while planning a potential permanent move to Tempe.
"Now, more than ever, sports teams must develop and leverage cutting-edge technologies to engage fans in and out of their arenas, deliver unique and compelling content, and operate as best-in-class business enterprises,” Xavier A. Gutierrez, Arizona Coyotes president and CEO, said in a statement. "Innovation makes us better, on and off the ice, and this challenge aligns with our key focus on innovation and tech enabled products and services to provide our fans, and fans in waiting, with the best possible in-arena experience.”
Applicants do not need to be affiliated with Arizona State University to participate in the venture challenge. Those interested can apply here.
