Professional athletes gathered last week to discuss the future of sports technology in Indiana.
Last week, InnoPower hosted the Sports Tech HQ update in Indianapolis. The event was centered on discussions of how to grow the sports technology industry in Indiana using current and former professional athletes. It also explored how to attract NFL players to become investors and business owners.
InnoPower CEO Emil Ekiyor says, “SportsTech HQ has done an amazing job when it comes to putting Indy on the map when it comes to sports tech.” He says the company, a collaboration between the Indiana Sports Corporation and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, is a way to showcase sports technology companies in Indiana and help them gain support and investments. “We want to activate and tell the story of Indianapolis.”
Ekiyor says several retired NFL players have contributed to business growth in Indianapolis. He says new technology is helping make sports worldwide easier, safer, and better.
Jeffrey Hintz, the Executive Director of Sports Tech HQ, says the future of sports technology is in Indiana. He wants his organization to help grow a vibrant sports technology ecosystem in Indiana.
During the recent Sports Tech HQ event, several founders pitched to a room full of athletes and professionals, trying to make connections and inspire them to invest.
Tarik Glenn, a former offensive lineman for the Indianapolis Colts, says he wants to get more retired athletes into the sports technology scene. He says being an athlete gives them a leg up and makes them an expert in the field and an ideal investor or founders. “I think athletes have a lot to bring to the table.”