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Tag: SportVot

  • Indian tech-caster SportVot goes Down Under

    Indian tech-caster SportVot goes Down Under

    MUMBAI: SportVot, the cloud-powered production outfit that has quietly revolutionised how the world watches second-tier sports, is making a play for Australia’s local leagues and community competitions. After sizing up the market down under, the Indian tech firm has appointed Tim Anderson to captain its Australian innings as managing director.

    With over 300,000 matches already under its belt across 30 sports in more than 20 countries, SportVot’s proposition is deceptively straightforward: professional-quality broadcasts without the eye-watering price tag that typically keeps smaller competitions in the shadows.
    Tim Andersen“Australian sport is deeply rooted in community engagement,” says Anderson, fresh in the hot seat at SportVot Australia. “We’re here to ensure every sport, every tournament and every athlete gets the attention they deserve.”

    The firm’s toolkit extends beyond mere live streaming. Its platform churns out quick-fire clips and highlights packages—social media catnip that sports administrators increasingly see as crucial for fan engagement and commercial pull.

    SportVot  co-founder & CEO Siddhant Agarwal is bullish about the Australian market: “Australia is one of the most passionate sporting nations in the world,” he notes, playing a straight bat. “Our technology is built for scale, and we are excited to see it empower Australian sports like never before.”

    The move follows months of quiet courtship with national and state sporting bodies across Australia. For community leagues accustomed to shaky smartphone footage or no coverage at all, SportVot’s arrival could mean the difference between playing to empty stands and building genuine digital followings.

    Whether Australia’s sporting landscape is ready for this democratisation remains to be seen. But with SportVot now padded up and taking guard, the country’s grassroots competitions may soon find themselves enjoying exposure previously reserved for the big leagues.

  • Sports partnerships in the era of streaming services – Optimising Digital and Offline Marketing

    Sports partnerships in the era of streaming services – Optimising Digital and Offline Marketing

    Mumbai: In India’s fast-paced digital economy, the sports sector is going through a major upheaval, mostly as a result of the emergence of live-streaming services. Sports fans are increasingly preferring the digital way to consume sports content, limiting the scope of traditional distribution channels thus, limiting the scope for brands to effectively advertise their cause. This digital transformation presents opportunities as well as challenges for brands keen on investing in sports.

    Traditionally, television has dominated the viewership in the realm of sports. In India, just a decade ago, the influx of the internet was far less pervasive than it is today. Live sports streaming on OTT platforms was not affordable and accessible and, thus, was not the norm, and fan engagement strategies were confined to offline channels. However, as the internet began to gain momentum and accessibility across India, a gradual shift occurred. The coming of the digital age brought up the emergence of online streaming services and digitally created content for fans across the globe. Fans started to enjoy the freedom to access their favourite sport and sport-related content regardless of the region, breaking free from traditional television schedules. This shift marked the beginning of a digital revolution.

    People today are more connected than ever before, thanks to the internet era. Thus sports leagues, sports tournaments, athletes, and the sports industry in general have also started to connect with their fans via digital platforms. Today, live sports broadcasts and live sports consumption have majorly shifted to OTT platforms to make it accessible for fans to engage with sports. Additionally, the emergence of social media platforms and the presence of fans on these platforms have made it all the more imperative for sports to take the digital route. Interestingly,  the emergence of these digital platforms, may it be OTT streaming or social media, has made it possible for previously unattainable ideas, material, and opinions to be shared. The digital route that sports today across the world is taking is affecting the brands positively as it gives them access to more accurate data about their target audience and also opens a new mode of communication, especially with the new generation. This has also led to brands partnering with specific sports tournaments and organizations and curating customized material that is specific to the audience and the platform on which it is being placed.

    This makes us question if offline marketing still holds its value. Though digital means have a worldwide reach, they lack two crucial components that prevail in all walks of life: trust and credibility. Trust, credibility, personal touch, and camaraderie are what make offline marketing, especially in sports, significant.  In face-to-face encounters, whether at live sports events, sponsor activations, or community initiatives, there exists a tangible sense of reliability and authenticity that can be orchestrated with the fans present at the moment.

    Online marketing is very good at drawing in new customers since it primarily targets a large audience. With online content, brands have more scope to explore creativity with captivating imagery and narrative to engage potential customers. In order to appeal to certain demographics, interests, and behaviours that resonate with the target audience, brands, and organizations also get the opportunity to customize their message and creative assets. On the other hand, offline marketing initiatives effectively target local geographies and demographic audiences. Companies and brands have the ability to target certain regions, organize events, and choose the material that appeals to the local population in those locations. Sports is one such area that offers brands the opportunity to leverage both of these ways of marketing.  Brands investing in local sports by organizing or partnering with local sports tournaments or promoting local talent by supporting their journey can help the brand create a stronger bond with the community. Brands can take the digital route or a more traditional offline marketing route; sports offers a 360-degree advertising opportunity with the added advantage of positive brand building and long-term connection with the community.

    ‘Decathlon’, one of the leading sports brands in India, is a great example of how companies may interact with their audience by combining offline and internet marketing techniques. With multiple digital campaigns such as ‘Play Your Own Way’ or ‘HERoes of Decathlon,’ they promote the idea of sports and inclusivity within sports effectively while hosting sports tournaments, partnering with local sports events and sports communities to establish real connections with customers and provide them with an in-person opportunity to interact with the brand and test out new items.

    In order to survive in this fast-paced world where consumers have easy access to thousands of brands, it is crucial to blend online and offline marketing strategies. The development of the digital age has created many fan engagement options, ranging from interactive social media marketing to immersive stadium experiences. Brands must choose the right opportunity and leverage the growing sports community in India.

    This article has been authored by  SportVot co-founder, CMO Shubhangi Gupta.

  • SportVot raises Rs 9.4 Cr to Digitise Grassroots Sports

    SportVot raises Rs 9.4 Cr to Digitise Grassroots Sports

    Mumbai: SportVot, a sports broadcast, and talent discovery platform, today, announced that it has raised Rs 9.4 Crore in a pre-series round. Led by Omidyar Network India, with participation from Anicut Capital, StartupLynk, Ventana Ventures, as well as existing investors Capital A, Ankur Capital, SucSEED Indovation Fund, and Marwah Sports, the funding marks a significant milestone in SportVot’s mission to democratise sports through technology. This capital will help SportVot increase the creation of opportunities for emerging sports talent while enhancing sports participation at all levels across India.

    Sportvot is a platform that provides a full suite of online services to stream sports events and help discover sports talent from the grassroots of India. Founded in 2019, SportVot has successfully delivered and commercialised grassroots-level sports, helped bring investment to local sports associations, and innovated sports broadcasting by utilising cloud technology. The firm has partnerships with the likes of the Brahmaputra Volleyball League in Assam, the Maharashtra State Kabaddi Association, the Football Delhi Association and the Nashik District Cricket Association, proving that even remote regions can participate in the global sports dialogue.

    Highlighting the impact of this funding, SportVot’s co-founder Sidhhant Agarwal said, “We are thrilled to have the backing of such esteemed investors. With this substantial investment, we aim to expand our technology and product offerings, not just within India but also internationally. Our goal is to make sports and advanced sports technology accessible to the millions of athletes and sports organisations across India and beyond”

    Omidyar Network India director Rohan Vyavaharkar commented, “As an investment firm focused on the next half billion or NHB, we believe in the power of sport to create impact in this segment. SportVot is providing a platform for nurturing grassroots-level sports and democratising the process of talent discovery, especially those with limited opportunities such as the NHB.  Its cutting-edge technology that allows anyone to broadcast from anywhere using any internet-enabled device with a camera makes it uniquely placed to help create impact. We believe in Sidhhant, Shubhangi and Yash’s vision and that SportVot will play a pivotal role in helping transform significant aspects of the sports sector in India.”

    The funding will primarily be used to make LIVE Sports Content and data capturing more accessible at all tiers of sport in India as well as globally, promote the culture of playing – professionally as well as casually and commercialise sports at the domestic level. Over the past four years, SportVot has digitised over 95,000 games from more than 15 sports, providing visibility to over 350,000 athletes. “We’re ready to scale new heights, over the past four years, we have enabled digitisation for over 100,000 games from more than 15 sports, we look to take this number to over 500,000 in India and globally. Our aim continues to be to bring unprecedented opportunities to emerging talents,” added SportVot co-founder Sidhhant Agarwal.

     

     

  • 2023 recap & exciting 2024 prospects: Indian Sports riding the wave: Yash Bhagwatkar

    2023 recap & exciting 2024 prospects: Indian Sports riding the wave: Yash Bhagwatkar

    Mumbai: In the dynamic world of Indian sports, 2023 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Bringing up niche sports into the limelight and setting the stage for an even more eventful 2024. As we reflect on the highlights of the past year and gaze into the future, it’s evident that the landscape of sports marketing, advertising, and broadcasting is set to undergo a groundbreaking shift.

    2023 Highlights: Niche sports take center stage

    Prime Volleyball League (PVL)
    The Prime Volleyball League emerged as a thunderbolt of excitement, captivating audiences with its action-packed matches and top-notch athleticism. The second season of the league not only showcased the horeism of Indian volleyball but also provided a platform for young talent to shine on the national stage with overall viewership growing by about 50 per cent compared to its premiere season.

    Ultimate Kho Kho League

    Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport, experienced a modern-day makeover with the Ultimate Kho Kho League. The league’s success lies in its ability to blend tradition with indie entertainment, drawing in a diverse fan base and giving the ancient game a vibrant, new identity. In late 2023, Kho Kho Sports League Private Limited, the company behind UKK, successfully concluded a Series A funding round, making it the first sports league in India to have secured private equity funding.

    Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 10

    PKL continued its excitement, reaching new heights in its tenth season and garnered a whopping 158 million viewers in the first 24 matches of the competition, representing a 20 per cent increase over the previous season. The league’s strategic combination of star power, intense competition, and innovative marketing strategies solidified its position as one of India’s premier sporting events, transcending regional boundaries.

    Pickleball Leagues in urban areas

    Pickleball, a sport that gained traction in local parks, found its way into urban leagues, captivating fitness enthusiasts and casual players alike. The sport’s inclusivity and simplicity struck a chord, turning it into a community-driven phenomenon.

    Cricket Continues its reign with the World Cup

    While niche sports surged, cricket continued to be the heartbeat of Indian sports. The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 had the nation glued to their screens with record viewership, followed closely in magnitude by the other star-studded cricketing events of the year, reinforcing the sport’s irreplaceable position in the hearts of millions.

    2024 Forecasts: A glimpse into the future

    Sports marketing & advertising:
    Key sports events in 2024:
    With major events like the Tokyo Olympics and FIFA World Cup, 2024 promises a feast for sports enthusiasts. Indian marketers have a unique opportunity to capitalize on the global stage, aligning their brands with the passion and enthusiasm these events generate.

    Sports streaming’s role in branding & advertising:

    As the digital landscape evolves, sports streaming is becoming the preferred medium for fans. This shift opens new avenues for branding and advertising, allowing for personalized, targeted campaigns. Brands can now engage with audiences in real time, creating a more immersive and interactive experience. With the rise in demand for sports tech platforms like SportVot, which is enabling live broadcasting at the domestic level, The spotlight is shifting to regional sports, creating untapped markets for advertisers. Leagues that resonate with local cultures and traditions are becoming fertile ground for brands looking to establish a deep connection with diverse audiences. From predictive analytics to automated highlight reels, Sports Tech is revolutionizing the way we consume sports content, providing a more personalized and engaging experience.

    Brands investment & impact at the grassroots level:

    Beyond big leagues, brands are recognizing the impact they can have at the grassroots level. Initiatives supporting local sports clubs, youth development programs, and community engagement are on the rise, marking a shift towards more socially responsible and community-oriented advertising.

    Monetisation options for the sports ecosystem:

    The monetisation of sports extends beyond traditional avenues. From virtual merchandise to exclusive content subscriptions, sports leagues are exploring innovative ways to generate revenue. This diversification ensures a sustainable financial model for the sports ecosystem.

    Demand for player analytics:

    Fans crave in-depth insights into player performance. The demand for player analytics is driving broadcasters to integrate advanced statistical analysis into their coverage, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the game and its protagonists.

    Remote production breaking geographic barriers:

    The fusion of sports and technology has shattered geographic constraints. Remote production allows for seamless collaboration between teams located across the globe, ensuring that the best minds in broadcasting can contribute to the live experience.

    Consumer trends:

    Short-Form Content Dominance:
    In an era of rapid consumption, short-form content is king. Snackable highlights, quick analyses, and bite-sized clips dominate the digital space, catering to an audience with limited time but insatiable appetites for sports content.
    Sports Talk Shows on the Rise:
    Sports talk shows have become the go-to platform for fans seeking in-depth discussions and analyses. From tactical breakdowns to spirited debates, these shows provide a space for fans to connect and engage with the sporting community.

    Niche Sports Gain Quick Attention:
    As attention spans shrink, niche sports are finding favor with audiences seeking quick, fast-paced action. The inherent excitement of these sports aligns perfectly with the demand for content that delivers instant gratification.
    In conclusion, the landscape of Indian sports is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Domestic sports rising to prominence, innovative marketing strategies, technological advancements in broadcasting, and evolving consumer trends paint a picture of a dynamic and vibrant future. As we step into 2024, the journey promises to be as exhilarating for fans as it is for the visionaries shaping the future of Indian sports. Get ready to witness the next chapter in the ever-evolving saga of athleticism, competition, and passion in 2024!

  • The art of storytelling: How content marketing is changing sports advertising in India

    The art of storytelling: How content marketing is changing sports advertising in India

    Mumbai: In the heart of India, where every street corner echoes with the chants of cricket enthusiasts, every school has a rich history of rivalry against other schools’ football clubs and every district has an annual Kabaddi championship tournament which the entire community awaits eagerly,  sports are not just games; they are a way of life. This very passion for sports has many brands strategically planned their campaigns around the sporting events happening in the country throughout the year. From the extravagant IPL or the PKL to domestic sports season at the state and national level, brands from across industries have always been in a tussle to capture the essence of the season and reach out to their target audiences in the most effective way possible. This quest has become the canvas for some of the most creative and compelling brand narratives that transform the brands with mere products into representations of the community all through the power of storytelling.  

    The idea of brands presenting themselves in the form of a narrative or a compelling story is not just another marketing gimmick to grab the audience’s attention but it has a deeper sense of connecting with the audiences on a personal level, becoming a part of the community and recognising and celebrating the impulse of the masses. Let’s say the cricket season for example, in India is not just a sporting season but as the IPL 2015, tagline said ‘India ka Tyohaar’, is a festival in itself. May it be a multilateral or bilateral series between nations, an ICC event such as the World Cup or an annual league event like the IPL, the tournament grabs everyone’s attention. Now the amount of exposure to audiences via digital and social media has surpassed all limitations, but it has its drawbacks. With consumers being bombarded with information about thousands of products from hundreds of brands, it has become essential for brands to stand out and develop a real connection that the audiences get hooked on. This is where the art of storytelling in an advertising campaign has taken a front seat.

    The storytelling approach has proven to be effective for brands across industries. One such is from the Disney Star network of channels in India. In 2016, promoting their new approach towards content and society when Star Plus launched a new tagline of ‘ Rishta Wohi, Soch Nayi’, in alignment with Disney Star’s ‘Nayi Soch’ campaign, the most narrative-driven movement was run by the brand when they asked the Indian Cricket Team, with star-studded cricketers such as MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma to wear a jersey with their mother’s name on the back. This initiative created a much-needed buzz around that particular game and indirectly towards Star’s new tagline and approach. Followed by a video series of player interviews where they expressed their thoughts about their mothers, it struck a chord with every individual. Thus, capitalising on a universal relation between a mother and a son, Disney Star subtly pushed ahead its narrative.  

    Another example of a highly content-driven campaign comes from Unacademy. Unacademy, one of the official partners for the IPL 2020, seamlessly merged its product with its association with the tournament. The target audience for the edutech platform being school and college-going students, Unacademy created a fun, easy-to-remember jingle song that instantly appealed to the masses. Utilising some of the most prominent video footage from the IPL season and turning it into simpler examples of complex educational concepts. For example, showing the Pythagoras Theorem using how MS Dhoni sets his field or taking Virat Kohli’s on-ground aggression as an example to explain Volcanic eruption, all of this in just one song, Unacademy created an experience for the students both while learning the concepts as well as watching the game, thus, giving the brand an incomparable recall value.

    These compelling narrative-driven campaigns now have seeped deep into the lower tiers of the sports ecosystem, with newer brands taking a similar approach to establish their presence at the domestic level. One such example of this can be the Nexus Day Surgery Centre, a world-class medical facility, specialised in sports injury treatments, that adopted a similar approach. Nexus Day Surgery Centre with a vision to establish its presence in Maharashtra’s vast local sports ecosystem, partnered with four National level women athletes from the state, becoming their official healthcare partners for the season 2023-24.  Nexus Day Surgery Centre timed this announcement with International Women’s Day to show their support and encouragement towards women’s participation in sports. Following this, the Nexus Day Surgery Centre also provided discount incentives to athletes from Maharashtra for their treatment and checkups. This way, Nexus Day Surgery Centre reached out to the close-knit Kabaddi and football community, established its presence, extended its support to the values of the community, i.e. of women empowerment and made a lasting impact on the minds of the people.

    As sports seasons continue to captivate the nation, innovative brands will keep pushing the boundaries of creativity. However, this innovative, story-driven approach is certainly transforming the way audiences or consumers perceive commercials. Now it has become less of an interruption and more of an essential chapters in the grand saga of sports, connecting us on a level deeper than mere fandom. As the sports advertising landscape evolves, with every match becoming a story waiting to be told, brands will continue to find new and ingenious ways to transform their products into legends, ensuring that the passion for sports in India burns brighter than ever before.

    This article has been authored by SportVot co-founder Shubhangi Gupta.