Comcast NBCUniversal has announced the first 10 start-ups included in its inaugural SportsTech Accelerator programme, of which Sky Sports is a partner.
The initiative was launched last year and aims to provide Sky Sports with early access to emerging tech, enabling it to evaluate the practical possibilities of incorporating the innovations into its productions and broadcasts.
Among the 10 companies chosen for the programme are three that focus on media and entertainment.
GlobalM, based in Geneva, Switzerland provides professional streaming solutions in broadcast quality to media outlets and broadcasters featuring an advanced secure video streaming network to meet the requirements for high-quality, low-latency live or file-based video delivery over the internet.
Canada’s Eon Media makes a full-featured suite of next-generation video-streaming software with 60-70 per cent cost savings and zero code change which can bring customers targeted, user-personalised experiences using advanced AI/machine-learning methods.
StreamRecap, based in Los Angeles, California builds video solutions for teams, leagues and streamers across all esports, with a focus on instant automatic highlights and coaching tools.
All of the companies selected will take part in a custom curriculum featuring workshops on fundraising, sales, marketing and branding, product/market fit, mental health, company culture, and working with corporations.
At the conclusion of the programme, the companies will participate in a virtual Demo Day on 26th May, and present their businesses before venture capitalists, startup founders, business executives, and media.
James Clement, director of Operations at Sky Sports said: “Our industry is changing faster than ever and SportsTech gives us deeper access to brilliant startups who we can collaborate with, offer mentorship to and learn from. We’re seeing some exciting ideas and relationships develop already.”
