The fall classic is right around the corner and the Dodgers are in first place. In more ways than one…
The Los Angeles Dodgers and advertising agency R/GA have teamed up to launch a 3-month accelerator program aptly dubbed the LA Dodgers Accelerator program. A total of 10 companies were vetted and selected to receive up to $120K in investment and mentorship from 80+ industry professionals which include the likes of Magic Johnson, Jeanie Buss, Troy Carter, Matt Withelier, and Nihal Mehta, for the program based out of R/GA’s offices in LA.
While not the first sportstech accelerator (Nike has previously run a sports-focused accelerator), it’s the first by a professional franchise that we can recall. The program participants are diverse but they all sit at the bustling intersection of sports, technology, and entertainment.
“The companies in this class show just how diverse and exciting the sports technology sector is becoming. With both early and late stage companies innovating the fields of analytics, fantasy and community engagement and more, the 10 companies will have invaluable access to the LA Dodgers network, brilliant and inspiring mentors, and talented R/GA Services experts who will take the companies to a higher level” shared Tucker Kain, Chief Financial Officer, LA Dodgers, and Managing Director, Guggenheim Baseball Management, LP.
“With the mix of early and late stage companies, this program is significantly different from any traditional accelerator. We are innovating on the idea of how to create value for companies at all stages, and the companies will receive tailored programming based on their stage. Additionally, this is an exciting time to be a startup in LA, and it’s clear that the community is strong and only growing. We’re thrilled to be a part of it” added Stephen Plumlee, Global Chief Operating Officer, R/GA and Managing Partner of R/GA Ventures.
It’ll be interesting to see how the 10 startups fare and how they are able to leverage the resources of a top-tier sports franchise combined with a distinguished advertising agency. There just may be a new fall classic in Los Angeles powered by the LA Dodgers Accelerator come demo day in November.
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