Launchpad Program

Launchpad Program

NBA Launchpad is the league’s initiative to source, evaluate, and pilot emerging technologies that advance the NBA’s top basketball and business priorities. The goal of the program is to attract talented entrepreneurs and companies that can innovate the NBA ecosystem.

Application

The application was open from September 12th to October 18th, 2024

Selection Process

Selected finalists will present to a panel of NBA experts and select subject matter experts

R&D Project

Winning companies will participate in a six-month R&D project within an NBA property

Demo Day

As a finale, winning companies will present their R&D results during NBA Summer League

Partner Evaluation

The league will evaluate the possibility of a broader strategic partnership

Priority Areas

For the 2025 NBA Launchpad program, the NBA is accepting submissions for innovations that advance the league’s top basketball and business priorities, with emphasis on the following areas:

The Game

Future of
Officiating

Future of Youth Basketball

Future of Player Health & Wellbeing

The Business

Future of
Media

Future of Fan Connection

Future of NBA Impact

Benefits

Product Development

Co-create product through R&D project participation alongside those in the NBA ecosystem

Brand Awareness

Official “Launchpad Participant” designation, inclusion in press releases

Access

Receive hands-on support from team and league experts for product development and go-to-market strategy

Exposure

Develop a global network of investors and corporate partners, and major sports leagues, athletes, coaches, and teams

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the application, selection day or the NBA pilot, please email launchpad@nba.com.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the application, selection day or the NBA pilot, please email launchpad@nba.com.