San Diego Sport Innovators (SDSI) is now accepting applications for its renowned 20-week sport and active lifestyle business accelerator program, Springboard. We caught up with Renne Catalano, Director of Business Development at SDSI, to ask about how Springboard helps new and existing brands succeed, along with learning more about SDSI’s new social media strategy to promote the program.
First, please remind us of how SDSI’s Springboard Program works?
Renne Catalano Gussman: SDSI Springboard is a 20-week business accelerator program open to companies of all sizes – from start-up companies commercializing a product, 
to mid-size companies working through a significant growth phase or a shift in their business model. Accepted companies are paired with a team of at least 3 mentors to guide them through our rigorous curriculum. They work with their mentors to refine their business strategies, marketing strategies and financial models to ultimately be set on a path towards success. Companies meet with their mentors weekly and convene four times over the course of the 20-week program to present their business updates. Our mentors give nearly 1,000 hours of their time each class to help these promising brands. The results? A better understanding of your opportunities and challenges, the ability to clearly articulate (and understand) your business value, a network of SAL executives, a business presentation suitable for investors, strategic partners or to implement internally, a tightened business strategy and clear path of implementation…the list goes on.
Can you tell us more about where Springboard graduates are today?
Renne Catalano Gussman: Since 2009 we have had 61 graduates. They have created 390 jobs, have raised $47.5 Million in Funding and 89% are still in business. We are currently working on our 2016 impact report and anticipate those numbers to continue to climb. Stay tuned!
Please tell us about the strategy behind your new weekly social media updates. What kinds of results have you seen to date? Have there been changes in the numbers and types of applicants for Springboard?
Renne Catalano Gussman: Our goal with the weekly social media posts is to encourage our members and mentors to get involved in celebrating the Springboard Program and our very successful graduates to help us promote this current Springboard application period. The best recommendations for us are word of mouth! We have had great engagement throughout the campaign and anticipate high quality applicants, especially from sports tech. This year not just in SDSI Springboard but the industry at large, we have seen an increase in interest and attention in sports technology, and how technology is affecting sports from Virtual Reality and sports analytics to motion analytics and eGaming.
How can interested mentors and brands apply for Springboard?
Renne Catalano Gussman: Companies can apply to SDSI springboard through February 13 on our website https://www.sdsportinnovators.org/the-springboard-program/or contact Renne Catalano Gussman renne@sdsportinnovators.com
Any experienced entrepreneur can make a great mentor! Contact renne@sdsportinnovators to learn more.
