25 Jun GSIC’s International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge Receives Over 160 Applications, Showcasing Global Innovation in Sports Tech

Singapore, May 27, 2024 – The Global Sports Innovation Center powered by Microsoft (GSIC), in partnership with Sport Singapore (SportSG), has concluded the second edition of its International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge. The program received a remarkable response, attracting 169 applications from 35 countries worldwide. These applications aimed to address 58 problem statements submitted by 25 sports entities, highlighting the global demand for innovative solutions in the sports tech industry. The response from the Asia-Pacific region was particularly strong in this edition, with 34.9% of applications coming from the region, 62.7% of which were applications from Asia and nearly half of which came from the ASEAN region.

GSIC is committed to fostering a thriving sports tech ecosystem and is grateful to all the participants who contributed their expertise and creativity to the challenge. The International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge serves as a unique platform connecting sports entities with potential solution providers. Problem statements provided by established sports entities offered a launchpad for innovative ideas, while participants gained valuable exposure and the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders.

The International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge is designed as an open innovation program, fostering partnerships between sports entities seeking solutions and the companies developing them.

Finalists to receive significant prize money

Out of the applications received, the judging panel shortlisted 10 applications to pitch their solution to a panel comprising sports industry professionals, representatives from organizations such as ONE Championship, FIBA 3×3, JSW Sport Group – Haryana Steelers, Cricket Australia, Atletico de Madrid, Real Madrid Next, and JSW Sport Group – Bengaluru FC.

Of the 10 finalists, three companies emerged as the winners due to the quality of their final pitches and presentations, relevance, innovativeness, and market viability:

• Sceenic (UK): powers interactive viewing solutions inside OTT apps, enabling celebrity watch parties where fans can interact with stars during live games and VOD content. transforms regular broadcasts into engaging two-hour events, enhancing the fan experience.
• Neoma (Hong Kong): specialised in integrating systems, spaces and people to automate workflows and deliver better experiences. With the focus elevating the fan experience, their Gaia platform leverages existing infrastructure (software/hardware) with AI operational assistance for staff.
• New Stream LTD (Israel): provides a platform that combines biomechanical analysis and AI for real-time performance and injury risk insights. Their system enhances athletic performance and injury prevention across sports, offering personalized, data-driven training strategies.

All 10 finalists will each receive SGD 12,000 to support the development and implementation of their proposed solutions. The top three winners, will receive an additional SGD 10,000/8,000/5000 in prize money if they fulfil the following criteria:

• Currently have an office incorporated and based in Singapore; or
• Have concrete plans to establish an office in Singapore within three months of the winners’ announcement (28 May 2024).

A lasting platform for innovation

Beyond the competition and prize money, GSIC aims to establish a permanent platform for collaboration. Sport entities can access a catalogue of solutions developed through the International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge and explore options for partnering with third-party providers to address their specific needs.

Stay tuned for the next challenge

With the sports industry constantly evolving, GSIC remains committed to keeping the problem statements current and relevant. New problem statements provided by sports entities will be released, reflecting the latest challenges and opportunities within the global sporting landscape. The categories addressed by the problem statements include:

• Fan Engagement
• Smart Venues & Sustainability
• High Performance, Fitness & Health
• Media & Sponsorship
• Business Insights

For more information on the International Sports Groundbreakers Challenge and upcoming editions, please visit the official GSIC website.