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The Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) - the leading industry body for sports technology and innovation -  has announced the launch of its Venture Capital Partner Network, signing Gandel Invest as the inaugural partner.

An industry first for the sports tech sector, the Venture Capital Partner Network aims to foster connections between venture capital firms and thriving sports tech startups. The Network offers venture capital firms access to sports tech startups with technologies that are primed for scaling and commercialisation, thereby facilitating robust deal flow.

ASTN’s annual Sports Innovation Report categorises technology stack segments, highlighting how various technologies are utilised across market verticals to create proprietary products or solutions. As part of the ASTN Venture Capital Partner Network, ASTN aligns specific Technology Stack categories with VC firms to ensure focused matchmaking with aligned interests.

Commenting on the initiative ASTN Executive Chair, Dr Martin Schlegel, stated “by forging strategic connections between sportstech startups and venture capital firms -  we are ensuring the best technologies meet the right investors to drive transformative growth and commercialisation.”

ASTN’s latest Sports Innovation Report highlights the emergence of a more active, coordinated and sophisticated investor community. ASTN predicts that the active investor community servicing early-stage sports technology companies will only continue to grow over the next few years.

Dr Schlegel explained “we feel that the circumstances are right for Venture Capital firms to benefit from Australia’s rich entrepreneurial talent pool. We’re looking forward to working closely with Gandel Invest to spearhead aligned business matchmaking opportunities.”

Gandel Invest offers strategic capital, connections and expertise to both growing and established businesses across the globe. As the inaugural partner to join ASTN’s Venture Partner Network - Gandel is set to tap into ASTN’s robust ecosystem of startups and entrepreneurs, poised to reap significant benefits.

Gandel Invest will also be the ‘VC program sponsor’ for ASTN’s well-established 10-week Early-Stage Founder Program alongside other state-based funding partners. Gandel Invest will gain visibility to all applicants who are eligible and accepted across the programs.

Adam Gandel, Senior Investment Manager at Gandel Invest, noted “we look forward to working with some of Australia’s leading sportstech startups that have benefitted from ASTN’s early-stage training programs. This partnership aligns with Gandel Invest’s desire to foster innovation and growth within the sports technology landscape.

“Sport has a way of making a positive impact on physical/mental health and general social wellbeing, unlike anything else. With the amount of money that is flowing into sport at all levels, there is a real opportunity for local entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions for the industry. We’re looking forward to working closely with ASTN to support the sports technology sector and help Australian startups reach the global stage.”

Dr Schlegel concluded “we are proud to work closely with Gandel Invest as we launch the Venture Capital Partner Network. Gandel will have the opportunity to work closely with Australia’s emerging sports tech startups, presenting a golden opportunity to foster close relationships and leverage the collective expertise within our ecosystem.”

Over the next few weeks, ASTN and Gandel will make further announcements in relation to upcoming elements of the partnership including contribution to other program delivery, engagement with the ecosystem and matchmaking introductions. In addition, ASTN will continue discussions with other like-minded VC firms to further support and bundle investments in sports technology.

Click here for more information on the ASTN Venture Capital Partner Network. Sportstech Investor and Startup Network.

Image credit: Shutterstock.

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