How It Works
Application
The application was open from September 8th - October 4th, 2023. There are no restrictions to apply based on funding, location, or previous competitions. All companies are invited to apply to a priority area:
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
Selection Process
Several companies from each priority were chosen to present their product or service to a panel of league and team experts. Each company was evaluated based on strength of team, value of the product for the priority area, and willingness to co-create with the NBA. Judges selected one company from each priority area to participate in the program.
R&D Project
The winning companies will participate in a unique six-month R&D project within the NBA’s ecosystem properties. In addition to the product development focus, the NBA pilot provides mentorship from key NBA personnel and exposure to contacts across the industry.
Launchpad Demo Day
As a finale to the 2024 Launchpad program, the selected portfolio companies will present the results of their six-month R&D projects to NBA executives, strategic partners, and investors during NBA Summer League.
Partnership Evaluation
The league will use the results of the R&D projects to evaluate the possibility of a broader strategic partnership with each company.
Timeline
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the application, selection day or the NBA pilot, please email launchpad@nba.com.