Where Sports Innovation Took Center Stage

Zero Labs’ Innovation Launchpad returned from July 4–6 with Cohort 5 our first-ever vertical edition focused primarily on sports innovation. Hosted in Las Vegas, the three-day accelerator brought together early-stage founders building technologies to shape the future of sports. With 11 startups and 20 founders joining from across North America, Cohort 5 was a fast-moving weekend of deep learning, real feedback, and high-stakes pitch prep.

Focused Founders, Real Challenges

Each founder came in with a clear set of goals: to validate their idea, sharpen their story, and connect with a network that understands what it takes to launch in the sports industry. Startups tackled issues like injury prevention, integrating community building with fan communities, and the future of real time peer to peer fan engagement, each with bold visions for impact at scale.

Some were already working with leagues and teams, while others were just getting started. What united them was a commitment to building at the intersection of innovation and the sports that we’re all such huge fans of.

Learning, Mentoring, Competing

Over the weekend, founders participated in a mix of practical workshops and targeted mentorship, designed to help them stress-test their assumptions and refine their business strategy. More than 100 participants including operators, investors, coaches, and sports professionals—took part in this high-energy edition of the program. Founders received expert feedback in 1:1 sessions and collaborative working blocks, all building toward the final pitch.

A Grand Finale at The Bellagio

Cohort 5 culminated in a final pitch event at the iconic Bellagio, where founders shared their progress with an audience of industry leaders, advisors, and fellow entrepreneurs. It was more than just a presentation it was a celebration of momentum, clarity, and community built over just 72 hours.

The energy in the room was electric, and conversations started that day are already shaping the future of these companies heading into the Fall.

The Future of Sports Starts Here

Las Vegas is quickly emerging as a hotbed for sports innovation, and programs like Innovation Launchpad are helping solidify that identity.

With the support of UNLV’s Office of Economic Development and GOED, Zero Labs continues to champion bold founders at the earliest stage especially those transforming how we play, watch, and experience sport.