AO StartUps is looking for sportstech for its winter intake ahead of the Australian Open

Applications for the mid-year intake of AO StartUps, the pioneering sports and entertainment tech program powered by Tennis Australia and the Australian Open, are open until the end of May

AO StartUps launched in 2022, and has now supported more than 30 startups across verticals including participation, fan engagement, high performance and event operations.

The startups taking part in the six-month program gain access to real-world testing environments at the Australian Open and other Tennis Australia events, along with mentorship, marketing and commercial pathways through a global sports tech network.

Tennis Australia Director of Innovation Dr Machar Reid said the program’s focus is more than just new ideas.

“It’s about real-world solutions that can transform our sport and elevate our major events. We’re proud to support visionary founders who want to make a global impact,” he said.

“The mid-year intake is designed to provide an extended runway for founders to work closely with our Innovation team to craft a pilot in the run up to AO 2026.

“One of the hallmarks of AO Startups’ success is that 70% of the portfolio companies have gone on to secure commercial deals, which is testament to the quality of the startups and Tennis Australia’s appetite to take risks and drive innovation.”

Last year’s program chose 12 startups from around the world – LILA, Back Sync, Electrokare, New Stream, Grandstand, Oho, INTIX, Foodini, Scala Sports, Lumi, Volta and exar.live – focus on products, services and experiences for AO players and fans.

Being accepted into the program also opens the door to potential investment via Tennis Australia’s VC fund, Wildcard Ventures.

The sport and entertainment verticals Dr Reid and the team are most interested in for the upcoming intake include player performance and health technologies, onsite/offsite fan experiences and all things pickleball.

Early-stage tech companies have until May 28 to apply.

For more details and to apply, head to aostartups.ausopen.com