CHANGE THE GAME, WITH US

We believe success in the modern game won’t come from sticking to the status quo, but from being bold enough to challenge it.

As Stevenage FC enters a new phase of growth, we’re opening our doors to a new kind of teammate – the founders shaping the future of football.

The SFC Innovation Lab is an accelerator embedded within a professional football club — designed to help startups validate their solutions, accelerate traction, and unlock strategic partnerships that drive real impact.

WHERE FOOTBALL MEETS INNOVATION

Our aim is to create a true bridge between the startup ecosystem and football — giving founders access to strategic value, real-world testing, and a platform to accelerate growth, while enabling Stevenage FC to engage directly with the game’s leading innovations.

If you’re building something that belongs in the future of football, this is your invitation to accelerate it — with us.

OUR FOCUS

Early stage companies building category defining solutions across:

Sports Tech & AI

Companies creating AI and technology that enhances performance from the pitch to the boardroom.

Data & Analytics

Data and analytics driven companies powering smarter decision making, deeper insight, and improved performance.

Media & Content Creation

Companies redefining how clubs, athletes, and fans create, distribute, and monetise content.

Fan Engagement

Companies transforming how fans connect, experience, and interact with the game.

Man Filming 2

We know great teams drive great outcomes – on the pitch and in the boardroom.

MEET THE TEAM

Phil Wallace

Stevenage FC

Kylie Wallace

Stevenage FC

Clive Edwards

Stevenage FC

Elias Youssef

Stevenage FC

Steven Webster

Advisor

Will Piper

Advisor

THE PLAYBOOK

We select three high-potential startups to join a bespoke 12-week programme.

Applications

We’ll open applications to innovators building the future of football, while proactively sourcing start-ups through referrals, introductions, and targeted outreach.

Pitch Day

Shortlisted start-ups will pitch to a panel of the SFC team and strategic advisors, where three will be selected to join the SFC Innovation Lab.

12 Week Pilot

Founders will begin a pilot process, which includes live testing, weekly office hours, bespoke sessions with experts from across sport, tech, and venture, as well as tailored growth support, access to a strategic network of advisors and investors, and media exposure.

Review

We’ll conduct a structured review with each start-up – assessing the outcomes of the pilot and exploring the potential for further strategic partnership.

Demo Day

Founders will present the solution to a curated audience of investors and strategic partners.

VALUE PROPOSITION

More than a badge on your deck – this is a launchpad.

More than a badge on your deck – this is a launchpad.

REAL-WORLD LAUNCHPAD

Pilot your product inside a forward-thinking football club – with direct access to leadership, faster feedback, deeper collaboration, and accelerated traction.

A NETWORK BEYOND SFC

In addition to the SFC team, connect with a curated network of strategic advisors, investors, and experts from across tech, sport, and venture.

MAXIMISE VISIBILITY

Amplify your product and journey through strategic content and story-telling.

If you’re building something that belongs in the future of football, this is your invitation to accelerate it… with us.

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