The National Basketball Association (NBA) is taking its game plan to a new African court. While the slam dunks and three-pointers continue to thrill audiences, the NBA is now investing in the continent’s booming tech scene with the launch of the Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator. This initiative goes beyond traditional sports promotion, aiming to empower African innovation at its source.
Fueled by Africa’s burgeoning online presence and the ever-increasing popularity of basketball, the accelerator program targets early-stage African startups working at the crossroads of sports, technology, and creativity.
According to a 2024 report by Digital Centre, Africa boasts over 500 million internet users, projected to reach 750 million by 2025. This surge in online activity creates a fertile ground for innovative startups to develop solutions that cater to the continent’s specific needs and interests.
The accelerator, powered by tech incubator ALX Ventures, focuses on startups tackling challenges and opportunities in critical areas:
- Event Management and Ticketing: Streamlining operations and fan experiences for the continent’s growing sports scene.
- Youth Development: Leveraging technology to create engaging and accessible programs that nurture the next generation of African athletes.
- AI and Digital Marketing: Utilizing cutting-edge solutions to enhance fan engagement, brand promotion, and overall sports marketing strategies.
Calling All African Tech Innovators!
If you’re an early-stage startup in Africa with a brilliant idea that merges sports, technology, and creativity, here’s your chance to take your game to the next level. Applications for the Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator are open until May 31st, 2024. To apply, visit the program’s official website: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gH7R0eYK97s.
Ten carefully selected startups will receive invaluable mentorship from NBA Africa, ALX Ventures, and industry veterans. This guidance will be instrumental in refining their products, accelerating business growth, and crafting winning strategies to enter the market.
The NBA’s commitment to Africa extends far beyond the accelerator program. The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between FIBA and NBA Africa, is already a testament to this dedication. Launched in March 2024, the BAL’s fourth season features 12 African club teams, captivating fans in over 214 countries and territories. Attendance figures also show a significant rise, with a reported 51% increase from the previous season.
However, the NBA’s vision is wider than that of the League. The 2023-24 NBA season had a remarkable 41% year-on-year increase in average viewership across Africa. Their social media accounts received nearly 90 M video views, while its YouTube channel generated over 230% year-over-year increase in video views.
By strategically combining its commitment to basketball with cutting-edge technology through the startup accelerator program, the NBA is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s future. This initiative is more than just about basketball; it’s about empowering African entrepreneurs to develop solutions to revolutionise the continent’s sports and entertainment landscape. The NBA’s investment transcends the court, fostering a win-win situation for aspiring businesses and basketball fans. This innovative approach sets a precedent for international organisations looking to empower Africa’s burgeoning tech scene.
