Launchpad Program

NBA Launchpad is the league’s initiative to source, evaluate, and pilot emerging technologies that advance the NBA’s top basketball and business priorities. The goal of the program is to attract talented entrepreneurs and companies that can innovate the NBA ecosystem.

Application


The application
was open from
September 8th-October 4th, 2023

Selection Process


Selected finalists will present to a panel of NBA experts and select subject matter experts

R&D Project


Winning companies will participate in a
six-month R&D project within an NBA property

Demo Day


As a finale, winning companies will present their R&D results during NBA Summer League

Partner Evaluation

The league will evaluate the possibility of a broader strategic partnership

Priority Areas

For the 2023 NBA Launchpad program, the NBA accepted submissions for innovations that advance the league’s top basketball and business priorities, with an emphasis on the following areas:

The Game

Advancing Women’s Basketball

Identifying
Future Stars
in Asia

Improving Player Availability and Wellbeing

The Fan Experience

Building Immersive Experiences

Enhancing the NBA Content Library

Uncovering
Next-Gen Fan Insights

Benefits

Product Development

Co-create product through R&D project participation alongside those in the NBA ecosystem

Brand Awareness

Official “Launchpad Participant” designation, inclusion in press releases

Access

Receive hands-on support from team and league experts for product development and go-to-market strategy

Exposure

Develop a global network of investors and corporate partners, and major sports leagues, athletes, coaches, and teams

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the application, selection day or the NBA pilot, please email launchpad@nba.com