CHANGING THE WAY WE WATCH, WEAR, AND CONSUME SPORTS
ATHLETE INNOVATOR
The next generation of sports innovation is being built by the people who understand the game best — the athletes.
Gridiron 1880 Athlete Innovators is a national platform that empowers student-athletes to launch new ideas, businesses, and technologies that shape the future of sports.
From media and apparel to technology and fan engagement, athletes are no longer just participants in sports — they are becoming the innovators driving what comes next.
Entrepreneurship is the new internship.
FROM CAMPUS TO THE WORLD
INNOVATOR
Athlete Innovators connects student-athletes with mentors, investors, and industry leaders who help turn ideas into real ventures.
Selected athletes gain access to:
- •Mentorship from founders, executives, and investors
- •Opportunities to test and launch pilot programs
- •Exposure to media, brand partners, and the Gridiron 1880 creator network
- •A national platform to showcase their ideas
The goal is simple:
Help athletes turn ideas into impact.
HOW IT WORKS
Nominations
From SID's & Coaches
Submit Your Idea
Share your vision
Mentorship & Development
Refine your concept
Pitch
To Investors
Athlete Innovator Summit
Showcase & launch