The IBM Sports Tech Startup Challenge at Web Summit is a global program to spotlight AI-driven startups redefining the sports industry. 
IBM and Web Summit are inviting startups to showcase their AI solutions for the sports industry at Web Summit Vancouver, offering an opportunity to gain visibility, receive expert feedback, and connect with industry leaders. 
Please note: Applications are now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied for the IBM Sports Tech Startup Challenge.

Pitches will be judged by a slate of soon-to-be-announced industry leaders, including IBM Ventures partners, IBM Sports &amp; Entertainment Partnerships executives, sports and tech executives, and world-class athletes.

How does it work?

<h2>Before you apply</h2>
For more than three decades, IBM has been a <a href="https://www.ibm.com/sports" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tech partner</a> to iconic sports organizations including the Masters, Wimbledon, the US Open, Scuderia Ferrari HP, UFC and ESPN Fantasy Football. IBM co-creates solutions with these sports partners to drive fan engagement, transform digital platforms, and ultimately make smarter fans by providing them with unrivaled insights and access to their favorite sports, teams, and athletes. With the AI Sports Tech Startup Challenge, IBM will bring this expertise to the startup community, accelerating innovation at the intersection of AI and sports. See more <a href="https://www.ibm.com/sports" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
Important Disclosures: Discovery Program showcases are standalone, visibility‑only events and do not confer eligibility, priority, or advancement to the invite‑only IBM Sports Tech Startup Prize Competition at Web Summit Lisbon. Participation in a showcase does not guarantee an invitation, investment, proof of concept, or other business relationship with IBM. Any potential proof‑of‑concept engagement is subject to IBM approvals and separate definitive agreements.

&#8211; Maria Sharapova, Tennis Legend

"It's Shark Tank for sports tech startups."

&#8220;With the IBM &amp; Web Summit Sports AI Startup Challenge, we’ll fuse that legacy with the ingenuity of some of world’s best startups, to spark the next era of sports innovation — and write a new playbook for AI-driven growth across the industry.&#8221;
&#8211; Emily Fontaine, Global Head of Venture Capital, IBM

Join the IBM Sports Tech Startup Challenge at Web Summit

"It's Shark Tank for sports tech startups."

The next era of sports innovation