ASU Launches SPORTx: Uniting Sports and Entrepreneurship
ASU News
April 30, 2025
Arizona State University today unveiled SPORTx, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering sports-related entrepreneurship and empowering student-athletes. This university-wide program, housed at Mountain America Stadium in the heart of Sun Devil Athletics, is a collaboration between the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute, Sun Devil Athletics, and ASU Enterprise Partners.
A Collaborative Effort
SPORTx is supported by industry leaders, including GoDaddy and LEAD Venture Corporation, solidifying ASU’s global reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Two Pillars of Focus
SPORTx operates through two primary pillars:
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Athlete Engagement: The Student-Athlete Venture Studio, a partnership between the Edson E+I Institute and GoDaddy’s Empower by GoDaddy program, equips student-athletes with knowledge, mentorship, and digital branding tools, including AI-powered solutions like GoDaddy Airo, to launch and grow their business ventures.
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Venture Development: This aspect accelerates sports-related entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging ASU’s diverse resources and expertise.
Empowering Student-Athletes
“We have a responsibility to support our nearly 700 Sun Devil student-athletes beyond the game,” said Graham Rossini, ASU’s Athletics Director. “SPORTx is a game-changer, providing them with the education, mentorship, and real-world experience to thrive as entrepreneurs.”
“Arizona State University has long been committed to innovation in every field, and sport is no exception,” added Chris Howard, ASU executive vice president and chief operating officer. “SPORTx exemplifies our mission by fusing the excitement of athletics with entrepreneurial opportunity.”
Get Involved
Whether you’re a student-athlete, donor, or aspiring startup, SPORTx invites you to connect and explore opportunities.