The Australian Sports Technology Network (ASTN) has launched a new website in order to promote local startups and tap into the multi-billion dollar global sports technology market.
Aamir Qutub, digital manager of ASTN, told StartupSmart the new website will allow users to showcase their work, gain valuable feedback and even form partnerships with other entrepreneurs.
“It will give all the people involved in this industry a space or a platform so they can come and collaborate with each other to share their ideas, connect with one another and interact,” he says.
ASTN hosts an annual conference, pitching competition and innovation forum for sports technology startups. However, Qutub says a digital space for sports technology enthusiasts is crucial because it will provide ongoing support and not everyone is able to attend networking events face-to-face.
“The industry is far and wide and it is not always possible for people to meet in person,” he says. “We are trying to tap into the global market as well. It is really important for us to have a global platform so venture capitalists in the US can access the platform and see what is going on in the Australian market.”
A key part of the new website is its chat forums and social media integration.
“If someone is doing something in online and mobile applications, they can go into that particular discussion forum and start a new topic,” he says. “It is a chance to get feedback from other people in the industry and maybe an opportunity to attract investors.”
Qutub says while Australia is a world leader in sports technology, he hopes the new website will help propel local startups onto the global stage and catch the eye of overseas investors.
“For startups to nurture and grow, it’s really essential for someone to facilitate that collaboration,” he says.
ASTN was founded in 2012. Based in Geelong, it aims to bring together tech companies, universities and entrepreneurs to develop new sporting technologies.
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