Fuelling the next generation of sportstech innovation
Zone Startups Sports + Media is an accelerator program supported by successful entrepreneurs and finance leaders. We constantly evaluate early-stage technology companies, bringing successful candidates into our program.
What kind of startups are compelling to us? We’re looking for powerful teams and ideas—companies ready for the vigour of product validation and customer acquisition—who want to change the face of sports, gaming, media, and related industries.
What we deliver to startups
Production validation and customer development
For startups looking to establish traction and drive growth, we provide the structure and guidance to have their products resonate with target audiences.
A global network of corporate partners
Startups can establish relations to pursue partnerships, business development, and investment opportunities.
Insight from mentors and advisors
Access entrepreneurs and industry experts who have first-hand experience in building and growth businesses.
Seed Capital
For high-potential startups, Zone Startups can make seed investments and support activities to raise additional capital.
Select Accelerator Perks
In addition to the programming, market access, mentors, potential investment, and workspace, we have partnered with the following companies to provide discounts on pricing for our startups.
Google Cloud
Our startups have access to Google Cloud's Spark Package, including Cloud and Firebase credit, access to Google engineers during office hours, and invitations to local startup events.
HubSpot
Ryerson Futures is an approved HubSpot for Startups partner. Our companies have access to startup-friendly pricing, a growing network of founders, education and demos, and more.
iDeals Virtual Data Rooms
iDeals offers our startups a significant free trial period to share documents securely with a variety of features to customize access to confidential materials.
Sportradar
Our portfolio companies are eligible for up to one year of free Sportradar data, including non-third party sports data API access, sports data widgets, and more.
Startups in the Program
SmartTones
SmartTones is the most powerful audio watermarking solution available to connect media content from any audio source to mobile devices.
Right Blue Labs
Specializes in athlete monitoring systems to reduce instances of illness, injury, and burnout in athletes.
Crowdbabble
Social media analytics, measurement, and reporting tools for Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Zone Startups Sports + Media team is extremely well connected and they bring those relationships to their portfolio companies early and often. We love having them on this journey with us.
– Heather Anne Ritchie | Co-Founder, Repable
As our wearable communication tech startup grew and adapted our solution to professional team sports, Mike and the team have been instrumental in helping us get in front of key decision-makers from organizations like the NFL and NHL.
– Bart Lipsky | Co-Founder, Elevety