Following on from technological advances in sports such as hawk-eye in tennis and goal line technology which was introduced to football last season, Manchester City are looking to unearth creative ideas and continue the flow of mainstream technology in sport.
Teaming up with mobile platform ‘Ideas Britain’, the former Premier League Champions are looking to locate grassroots entrepreneurs with creative ideas for technology in sport, according to Real Business.
Called ‘innovation for sport’, Ideas Britain, who describe themselves as “more than an incubator or fund,” is the platform that is connecting entrepreneurs with “expert” business coaches.
The first 100 entries to the competition will be scrutinised by Ideas Britain business coaches so that those submitting early can gain expert advice before the full competition begins.
Andrew Gilligan, head of research and insights at Manchester City FC, said that this project comes as part of a plan to improve the club as a whole.
“At Manchester City we are constantly looking for ways to introduce new and innovative ideas across all aspects of the club” Gilligan said. “Ideas Britain recognises the importance of opening the door to everyone to ensure that the best ideas get the attention they deserve, and we share their passion for providing young people in our local community with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to not only have their ideas heard, but also put into action.”
Adam Shaw, founder and CEO of Ideas Britain, also said that Ideas Britain are “hugely proud” to be working with a partner such as Manchester City, and that they “want to tap into the insight and enthusiasm of young people everywhere.”
The competition formal launches in October 2015 and will run until 15 December, after which winners will be announced on 15 January 2016. Those successful will have one-on-one mentor sessions with Ideas Britain coaches and the staff at Manchester City best studied to moving their idea forward.
