Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Future of Sport Lab (FSL)?
FSL is at the forefront of sport innovation through: creative research and innovation partnerships, applied research and needs assessments to identify emerging opportunities and solve real world problems, support for startups including the potential opportunity to have MLSE pilot test products/services, research forums to bring together experts to identify emerging trends and solve practical sector challenges, and the development of complementary sport business programming at the Ted Rogers School of Management.
What is the goal of collaboration?
The objective of the FSL is to create a sport business ecosystem anchored by sport innovation and entrepreneurship, from connecting students, entrepreneurs and experts with premier Canadian sport properties and partners, to broadly supporting and fostering innovative sport business solutions and technologies as well as related insights and education.
Who is running the FSL?
The FSL is managed by Toronto Metropolitan University and supported by MLSE under the direction of Dr. Cheri L. Bradish, Founding Manager/Director, FSL & Ted Rogers Director of Sport Business Initiatives, Toronto Metropolitan University.
Are there any other academic partners?
Yes. While Toronto Metropolitan University is the academic lead, there will be opportunities for other research labs and institutions to take part.
How do sport and academics mix in the lab?
The intersection of sport and research/academics will play out in a multitude of ways at the FSL, including:
Applied research and needs assessments to identify emerging opportunities and solve real world problems through team-based projects and new enterprises.
Annual insight challenges, including hackathons and competitions to produce innovation solutions.
Support for startups, including the potential opportunity to have MLSE pilot test products/services.
Hosting of hospitality nights to showcase projects and activities.
Research forums to bring together experts to identify emerging trends and challenges as well as leading practices globally, including forums featuring cross-functional speakers from MLSE and teams to identify opportunities and challenges for FSL members (including integration in the MLSE GP Summit forums and consideration in any other relevant knowledge transfer sessions).
Development of complementary sport business programming at the Ted Rogers School of Management.
What opportunities will there be for students?
The opportunities for students include internships, professional development, integration in classes and projects, opportunities for direct mentorship and assistance with sport entrepreneurship concepts.
How does this collaboration compare with others in the sport innovation space in North America and other parts of the world?
The FSL offers access to more teams, more venues, more fans, more industry partners and more academic experts than any other sport innovation ecosystem in North America.
Where can I learn more?
Please sign up to our mailing list to receive updates and more information.
How do I learn more about MLSE and MLSE DigitalLabs?
MLSE: Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), one of the world's premier sports and entertainment companies, owns the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL), Toronto Marlies (AHL), Raptors 905 (NBA G League), TFC II (MLS Next Pro) and Raptors Uprising Gaming Club, the Toronto Raptors esports franchise in the NBA 2K League. Its charitable arm, MLSE Foundation, focuses on funding initiatives to support youth through sport and recreational programs. MLSE also owns and operates Scotiabank Arena, Canada’s premier sports and entertainment venue hosting more than 200 events each year, two digital channels – Leafs Nation Network and NBA TV Canada – and has a partnership with Live Nation, the largest concert promoter in the world. MLSE has also invested in and operates five of Toronto's sports facilities: Coca-Cola Coliseum; BMO Field; BMO Training Grounds at Downsview Park, home of Toronto FC's Academy and the First Team's practice facility; OVO Athletic Centre, the practice facility for the Toronto Raptors; and the Ford Performance Centre for Hockey Excellence, the practice facility for the Maple Leafs and Marlies.
MLSE Digital Labs: MLSE Digital Labs are the technology and innovation partner for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, Toronto Argonauts and the rest of MLSE’s properties. We are the largest digital technology team in pro sports. Our mission is to disrupt sports and entertainment through delivery of innovative fan, player, team and performer-centric experiences. We specialize in building customer-centric digital products from the ground up with our full stack technology team that can design, develop, analyze and implement solutions.
