The first phase of the Athlete365 Business Accelerator program, which aims to enable current and past elite athletes to transform their skills into profitable business endeavors, has been formally launched by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in partnership with Alibaba.com.
This year’s Athlete365 Business Accelerator has drawn applications from hundreds of athletes worldwide, demonstrating a range of backgrounds and experiences, building on the success of past editions. Notably, 10% of candidates are Paralympians, while 41% of applicants identify as female. The participants hailed from Africa, Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America.
Through a staged strategy that starts with online learning modules, virtual bootcamps, and one-on-one mentoring sessions, the program provides participants with individualized support. Participants will learn about important topics like the foundations of e-commerce, international trade, and the incorporation of AI tools from professionals from Alibaba.com. The all-inclusive framework seeks to promote creativity by giving athletes the tools they need to expand their current businesses or realize their own company concepts.
All athletes registered on Athlete365 and other interested parties are welcome to attend this event, which will highlight Parker’s journey from professional basketball to business leadership and provide insights into the perseverance and foresight necessary for successful entrepreneurship.
Bootcamps centered on developing company concepts and utilizing e-commerce platforms kick off the program on December 9. In order to streamline international trade and communication, athletes will also get firsthand experience with Alibaba.com’s state-of-the-art artificial intelligence solutions. These technologies are expected to give participants distinct advantages in the cutthroat global market. They support eighteen languages and connect consumers to a vast network of suppliers and products.
Research from Alibaba.com highlights the necessity of these programs, showing that 63% of retired athletes have trouble changing careers.
Together with other programs made available to the athlete community through Athlete365, the Athlete365 Business Accelerator helps participants turn their athletic principles of excellence, tenacity, and teamwork into business success by assisting them on their path to entrepreneurship.
IOC Athletes’ Commission Chair Emma Terho stated, “Our dedication to assisting athletes throughout and after their athletic careers is reflected in the Athlete365 Business Accelerator.”
Alibaba.com “Entrepreneurs and successful sportsmen have traits in common,” stated President Kuo Zhang. Both possess unparalleled perseverance and resolve, a drive for achievement, and a willingness to take chances. However, sportsmen frequently find it difficult to settle into a new employment after their sporting achievements.
