Qatar SportsTech accelerator opens doors for international startups

SportsTech startups around the globe now have an opportunity to jet off to Doha, Qatar as part of a worldwide accelerator programme by Startupbootcamp and Qatar Development Bank (QDB).

The three-month-long SportsTech Accelerator program is looking for ten SportsTech startups that are interested in developing new technology solutions.

Those solutions are in areas such as: Team performance - analytics, venue optimisation - management, sports tourism, sports culture, sports IoT, wearables - equipment, fan engagement - experience, sports medical, and VR, AR and e-sports.

Doha will be the scene of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and Startupbootcamp says there's no better way to support sports than by creating a thriving hub of tech entrepreneurs and startups.

"Combining the entrepreneurial mindset and skills with our global distribution of power paves the way for greatness." Startupbootcamp – with a decade of experience in successfully accelerating startups around the world – will facilitate the entire programme," comments SportsTech Accelerator director Koen Bosma.

"This programme is going to be massive. We will be recruiting the best SportsTech startups worldwide and provide them with an unparalleled platform to showcase their solutions. Together with our strong partners, we aim to turn entrepreneurial ambitions into successful companies".

The accelerator programme also aims to help Doha spearhead the SportsTech industry.

"Opening up the QDB Network is of huge benefit for startups. Combining the entrepreneurial mindset and skills with our global distribution power paves the way for greatness," comments QDB CEO Abdulaziz Nasser Al-Khalifa.

The ten chosen startups will receive one-on-one mentorship from at least 100 industry experts, office space in the Aspire Zone, access to QDB's global network, and €15,000 for living expenses.

The Aspire Zone is a sports research and educational facility for those in the international sports industry.

Startupbootcamp says that its programme will benefit international startups and local Qatari startups both now and in the future.

"It will help Qatari entrepreneurs connect with accelerators around the world, scale their business, and support them in finding mentors and building partnerships," the company says.

"With the support of partners like Aspire and the global reach of mentors and partners in the Startupbootcamp ecosystem, Qatar SportsTech offers a wealth of resources to further develop the startup ecosystem in Doha."

"The intensive accelerator program allows entrepreneurs to focus purely on product and business development while bringing them in direct contact with mentors, potential customers, and investors.

Startups can contact Startupbootcamps to apply for the programme. The accelerator will begin in Doha in February 2019.