TeamViewer has launched an initiative titled SheSportTech, aiming to encourage and support women in pursuing careers in sports technology. Developed in cooperation with their sports partners, Manchester United and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, SheSportTech offers inspiration, training grants of €1500 each, and access to bespoke events and experiences to help women explore career opportunities in this expanding field.
The SheSportTech Pathway within the initiative offers five women the chance to be paired with an female professional currently deployed in sports technology. The paired professional will provide the recipients with advice, support, and guidance based on their personal experiences in the field. This initiative, therefore, will not just help inspire women contemplating a career pivot towards sports technology, but will also substantially support their professional development.
Stressing the crucial role women play both on and off the pitch, the initiative's creative campaign showcases the range of female talent driving Manchester United's success. Top players such as Mary Earps, Ella Toone, Hinata Miyazawa, Katie Zelem, and Nikita Parris, have been featured along with women executing key roles in areas such as insights, data analysis and security, customer relationship management, and talent management.
Faith Wheller, Vice President of Brand, Sports, and Integrated Marketing Communications at TeamViewer, said, "We believe that technology is made better by a diverse workforce. We hope that showcasing these amazing women and their roles will inspire more women to join the industry. Applying for the grants and experiences within our SheSportTech program can be a healthful step in that direction."
A unique feature of the initiative is its focus on providing tangible support to women looking to make their mark in sports technology. Women interested in this industry can apply to be a part of the initiative right away. Winners won't only benefit from training grants, but will also receive one-to-one assistance from role models within Manchester United, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, and the tech team at TeamViewer. They'd also get exposure to the use of technology within these organisations through exclusive events and experiences.
The initiative is being supported by Women in Sports Tech (WiST), a leading global non-profit organisation working towards creating growth opportunities for women and employers in the sports tech industry. Marilou McFarlane, founder and CEO of WiST, commented, "We are honoured to join forces with TeamViewer on this educational and engaging initiative. This partnership aligns with our vision of creating a more diverse and inclusive sport technology ecosystem, and more innovative and successful businesses, through proven, tangible solutions."
The application window for the SheSportTech initiative closes at 12:00 am GMT on Sunday, June 30. A selection panel will review applications based on several criteria, such as the applicant's reason for seeking a career transition into sports technology, how they plan to utilise the funds, and the quality of their written proposal.