Bridging Detroit and Israel: Howard Handler's Sportstech Exploration
Written by Liza Yedwab, MIBA Manager of Business Development, Israel
The Michigan Israel Business Accelerator (MIBA) recently facilitated an exciting exploration of Israeli sports-tech innovation for Howard Handler, President of 313 Presents and MIBA Board Member.
313 Presents, a driving force in Detroit’s live entertainment scene—managing iconic venues like Little Caesars Arena, the Fox Theatre, and Comerica Park—sought to discover cutting-edge technologies that could enhance its fan experiences.
MIBA’s Israel team arranged meetings with Israel’s leading sports tech innovators. Howard’s itinerary included:
- WSC Sports is a leader in AI-driven content automation that delivers personalized sports media experiences. Howard recalled meeting WSC years ago during his tenure at Major League Soccer and was impressed by the company’s significant growth. During the visit to their dynamic offices, we witnessed firsthand the company’s all-in-one platform for AI-tailored content experiences that create more personalized content, formats, and viewing channels.
- ABonAir provides wireless video transmission solutions critical for live event broadcasting.
- NEOJA delivers a unique basketball-focused audience and player engagement experience, designed to elevate live event interactivity, noting their unique lab-to-game location development.
- PlaySight supplies smart sports video and analytics technology, revolutionizing training and performance analysis – focused on netball/pickleball sports. PlaySights is currently working with the Grand Rapids Tennis Club, and Ace Pickleball is opening two clubs in Michigan.
- Colosseum Sport connects the global sports tech community with disruptive technologies and knowhow, positioning Israel as a sports tech leader.
These meetings underscored Israel’s pivotal role in sports tech innovation, showcasing technologies poised to transform live entertainment. The potential for collaboration between 313 Presents and these Israeli companies is significant, promising to deliver innovative experiences to Detroit fans and beyond.
This visit exemplifies MIBA’s commitment to building strong connections between Michigan and Israel, fostering innovation, and creating mutually beneficial partnerships. We are enthusiastic about future collaborations and their impact.
