The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Alibaba.com have launched the first phase of the Athlete365 Business Accelerator programme, an initiative designed to help current and retired athletes transform their sporting skills into business success. The programme aims to empower athletes from around the world with innovative tools and key insights to become entrepreneurs and thrive beyond their competitive careers.
The Athlete365 Business Accelerator offers a comprehensive structure that includes online learning modules, virtual camps and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Led by experts from Alibaba.com, participants will explore key areas such as e-commerce, global commerce and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. These skills will enable them to develop new business ideas or scale existing projects.
The programme will officially kick off on 9 December with camps focused on creating business models and using e-commerce platforms. In addition, athletes will have access to Alibaba.com’s AI tools, which facilitate global commerce by bringing together 18 languages and connecting users with a vast network of suppliers.
INSPIRATIONAL MASTERCLASS WITH TONY PARKER
To mark the start of the programme, two-time Olympian and entrepreneur Tony Parker hosts a masterclass on 3 December, sharing his experience of transitioning from professional basketball to business leadership. This event, open to all Athlete365 registered athletes, will highlight the qualities needed to succeed as an entrepreneur and serve as an inspiration for participants.
With a 63% rate of retired athletes facing difficulties in the professional transition, according to research by Alibaba.com, this initiative seeks to bridge that gap and provide them with new opportunities in the competitive global marketplace.
IMPORTANCE OF STRATEGIC PARTNERS
Emma Terho, Chair of the IOC Athletes‘ Commission, highlighted the impact of the programme on athletes’ lives: “The Athlete365 Business Accelerator reflects our commitment to athletes during and after their competitive careers. This programme provides them with resources to leverage their unique skills in entrepreneurship, connecting them to global markets.”
Kuo Zhang, president of Alibaba.com, added: “Athletes and entrepreneurs share characteristics such as determination and a desire to overcome risks. We want to ease their transition into the world of e-commerce by providing practical tools to participate in global commerce.”
Anne-Sophie Voumard, IOC Director of Television and Marketing Services, said: “Our global partners play a crucial role in supporting athletes at every stage of their journey, helping them to succeed on and off the field of play.”
