Under CEO Clare Akamanzi’s leadership, NBA Africa unveiled an ambitious initiative to bolster the African tech ecosystem with the launch of the “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator.”
This program, managed by ALX Ventures, is specifically tailored to nurture early-stage startups innovating within the sports and creative industries.
The accelerator is seeking startups that are pioneering solutions in critical areas such as event management, ticketing, youth development, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital marketing. The goal is to foster a new wave of technological advancements that will enrich the sports experience for fans and the industry at large.
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How to Apply
Aspiring startups can submit their applications through the official website tripledoubleaccelerator.nba.com until the deadline on Friday, May 31. After a thorough review, the ten most promising startups will be selected to join the accelerator program.
Program Benefits
The chosen startups will benefit from a comprehensive mentorship program, receiving guidance from seasoned professionals at NBA Africa, ALX Ventures, and other leading corporate entities. This mentorship will focus on product development, business growth, and effective market strategies.
In a significant event scheduled for September, NBA Africa will host a Demo Day in New York City, aligning with the United Nations General Assembly. This will give the startups a platform to showcase their products to a distinguished panel of industry leaders from the U.S., Africa, and beyond. Four standout companies will be chosen to receive financial support, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate with NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Clare Akamanzi expressed her excitement about the program, emphasising its role in promoting the growth of the African sports ecosystem and placing these startups at the vanguard of sports development on the continent.
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“We are thrilled to launch an accelerator program based on the continent and focused on early-stage African startups,” said Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa. “This groundbreaking initiative underscores our dedication to expanding the African sports ecosystem, positioning these innovative companies at the forefront of sports development on the continent.”
This initiative is part of a broader commitment by NBA Africa to drive digital transformation and support the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs. The accelerator aims to catalyse growth in the sports and creative industries by providing access to mentorship and capital, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and innovative African sports landscape.