
2022 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS
RETAIL INNOVATION PROGRAM


APPLICATION IS NOW CLOSED!
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DICK’S Sporting Goods (DSG) partners with innovative, enterprise-ready startups to unlock, amplify and scale expertise to help Athletes make better purchasing decisions across any / all of its channels.
DSG creates confidence and excitement by personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. As a leading omnichannel retailer, DSG seeks new platforms, technologies, and experiences that enable the expertise of DSG team members ("Teammates"), customers (“Athletes”), and the community to enhance the overall customer experience.

Example technologies or areas of focus include:
- Athlete community platforms
- eCommerce solutions that drive intelligent buying decisions
- Unique/interactive in-store experiences
- Virtual/digital experiences connected to brands
- Peer to peer, Teammate to Athlete recommendation solutions
- Omni-channel information distribution
- AI & Machine Learning
- Athlete-driven predictive analytics
About the Program
Selected startups will have the opportunity to collaborate with Dick’s Sporting Goods to build out a pilot opportunity that will be pitched to DSG executives for the chance at a funded pilot. From a successful pilot, there are numerous opportunities including scaling into a larger enterprise commercial deal and/or potential investment.

Throughout the 6-week program, selected startups will receive one-on-one feedback and coaching from DSG executives and the VentureFuel team to help fine-tune potential pilot plans and pitch day presentations. Startups may also receive press and recognition of their involvement in the program.
Program Timeline

For any questions on the program, reach out to Program Director Beau Bergman at beau@venturefuel.net
About DICK’S Sporting Goods
Since 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods has strived to equip the True Athlete. We hold pure respect and reverence for every True Athlete, regardless of ability -- if you wake up every day and want to make yourself better, we want to be the store that supports your endeavor. We are guided by these True Athletes as represented not only in the performance of our equipment and apparel offerings but ultimately in the success of our brand.
About VentureFuel
Founded in 2014, VentureFuel is an independent innovation consultancy based out of New York City. It builds innovation programs by unlocking the power of external innovation through partnerships with startups for industry leaders. Its programs focus on unlocking new sources of growth.