FOR THE FOUNDERS SHAPING WHAT’S NEXT

Change the Game, with us

A Platform Built for Football’s Boldest Innovators

CHANGE THE GAME WITH US

We believe success in the modern game won’t come from sticking to the status quo, but from being bold enough to challenge it.

As Stevenage FC enters a new phase of growth, we’re opening our doors to a new kind of teammate – the founders shaping the future of football.

The SFC Innovation Lab is a startup accelerator embedded inside a professional football club – designed to identify, pilot and scale start-ups.

CHANGE THE GAME WITH US

We believe success in the modern game won’t come from sticking to the status quo, but from being bold enough to challenge it.

As Stevenage FC enters a new phase of growth, we’re opening our doors to a new kind of teammate – the founders shaping the future of football.

The SFC Innovation Lab is a startup accelerator embedded inside a professional football club – designed to identify, pilot and scale start-ups.

OUR FOCUS

Early stage companies building category defining technologies across:

Sports Tech & AI

Companies creating AI and technology that enhances performance from the pitch to the boardroom.

Data & Analytics

Data and analytics driven companies powering smarter decision making, deeper insight and improved performance.

Media & Content Creation

Companies redefining how clubs, athletes and fans create, distribute and monetise content.

Fan Engagement

Companies transforming how fans connect, experience and interact with the game.

Man Filming 2

We know great teams drive great outcomes – on the pitch and in the boardroom.

MEET THE TEAM

Elias Youssef

CEO & Founder

agnes southern

Head Marketing

mark parsley

Senior Executive

terry watson

Senior Executive

george dean

Project Manager

monica pulley

Project Designer

THE PLAYBOOK

We select three high-potential startups to join a bespoke 12-week programme.

Application Period Opens

We’ll open applications to innovators building the future of football, while proactively sourcing start-ups through referrals, introductions and targeted outreach.

Pitch Day

Shortlist start-ups will pitch to a panel of the SFC team and strategic advisors, where three will be selected to join the SFC Innovation Lab.

12 Week Pilot

Founders will begin a pilot process, which includes live testing, weekly office hours, bespoke sessions with experts from across sport, tech and venture as well as tailored growth support, access to a strategic network of advisors and investors and media exposure.

Review

We’ll conduct a structured review with each start-up – assessing the outcomes of the pilot and exploring the potential for further strategic partnership.

Demo Day

Startup will present the solution to a curated audience of investors and strategic partners.

VALUE PROPOSITION

More than a badge on your deck – this is a launchpad.

More than a badge on your deck – this is a launchpad.

REAL-WORLD LAUNCHPAD

Pilot your product inside a forward-thinking football club – with direct access to leadership, faster feedback, deeper collaboration and accelerated traction.

A NETWORK BEYOND SFC

In addition to the SFC Team, connect with a curated network of strategic advisors, investors and experts from across tech, sport and venture.

MAXIMISE VISIBILITY

Amplify your product and journey through strategic content and story-telling.

If you’re building something that belongs in the future of football, this is your invitation to accelerate it – with us.

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