Applications now open for second Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN – Building off the success of its first iteration, the Minnesota Twins announced today that applications are now open for the second class of the Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars, which runs from November 2022 through February 2023. The second of three planned accelerator cohorts, the program provides a unique development opportunity for startups focused on the intersection of technology, sports and entertainment. Each of the 10 selected startups will receive funding, hands-on mentorships from Techstars and the Twins, and access to curated workshops and resources, as well as lifetime access to the Techstars global network. Applications for the program will close on Wednesday, July 27.
The Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars, the first of its kind in Minnesota sports and just the second such venture to be operated and funded by a Major League Baseball club, held its initial cohort from November 2021 through February 2022; the inaugural class of 10 startups produced multiple proof of concept activations with the Twins. Those companies with Target Field integrations in 2022 include:
- AWSM Sauce (West Chester, PA; awsmsauce.co): Co-founded by Carl Starkey and Paul Lehmann, the world’s first sustainably-focused sauce and condiment company is featured in various Target Field locations. Through their patent-pending, dry-pack sauce mixes delivered in compostable packaging, AWSM Sauce eliminates single-use plastic containers for staples such as ketchup, mustard, and barbeque and hot sauces – without sacrificing taste.
- EDGE Sound Research (Los Angeles, CA; edgesoundresearch.com): Co-founded by Valterri Salomaki and Ethan Castro, EDGE Sound Research – a pioneer in embodied audio and the future of sound – has brought its immersive technology to Target Field. The ResonX Sound Lounge at the ballpark is the first application of embodied audio technology in the sports world and includes two benches outfitted with technology connected straight to the stadium sound system, including microphones at home plate, that allows visitors to feel the crack of the bat and the pop of the catcher’s mitt.
- LeagueOS (Minneapolis; leagueos.gg): Co-founded by Marty Wetherall and Joel Stewart, LeagueOS is a solution for esports registration, operation, engagement and content. On May 1, Target Field played host to the National Youth Drone Sports Championships competition, with LeagueOS serving as the tournament’s full-service SaaS solution.
Who Should Apply
The Minnesota Twins and Techstars are looking for startups focused on game-changing, technology-driven advancement in areas ranging from fan engagement and experiences, to digital media and content, to venue and innovation, and beyond.
The Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars is headquartered at the Ford Center, itself a landmark of innovation and located steps from Target Field in the heart of Minneapolis’ North Loop. Interested startups may learn more and apply at techstars.com/accelerators/minnesota-twins.