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Ryerson partners with Rogers to advance sport innovation

By Cherileigh Co

The Next Big Idea in Sport will give Canadian startups a chance to win cash prizes, announced Friday at Ryerson University’s Digital Media Zone (DMZ).

During the Year of Sport in Canada, Ryerson and Roger Communications’ initiative will change the Canadian sport landscape, according to Bal Gosal, Sport Minister.

Four DMZ startups were showcased: Brizi, Phosphorus Media, Physicalytics and RightBlue Labs.

“Sport tech startups is a young industry. Hopefully this competition will form new deals and partnerships,” said Sam Seo, Physicalytics vice president of operations.

Ten selected startups will also be provided with four months of incubation at the DMZ.

The competition will be judged by a group of advisors and mentors led by CFL commissioner, Mark Cohon.

“When I think of successful companies, it’s because of strong mentorship,” said Cohon.

One of the mentors is Greg Douglas, a retired two-time sailing Olympian.

“We have a cutting edge group that will give them real life experience. Sport innovation is an exciting field and it’s becoming bigger and bigger,” said Douglas, a Ryerson third-year marketing student.

Rogers and Ryerson continue to progress sports by adding onto the sports media program at the Mattamy Athletic Centre initiated last September.

“We see this as ways to strengthen footpaths already established,” said Cheri Bradish, sport marketing research chair at Ryerson University.

Applications to the Next Big Idea are due May 1, 2015. The three finalists will receive prizes of $50,000, $30,000 and $20,000, respectively.

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