membership

TESTIMONIALS


"The springboard program is one of the most unique and valuable programs an aspiring entrepreneur could ask for, the education, guidance and relationships that are part of the process are absolutely priceless.  This sort of altruistic behavior is exactly what the American-dream is built on.  Everyone wants to get ahead today but who takes the time to help the people promoting change and innovating, usually no one.  At springboard the time and energy invested by the Entrepreneurs In Residence, advisers and organizers allow for real learning and business plan development.  This sort of consultation is nearly impossible to find otherwise, or at the very least is one sided or overly expensive.  I have a deep gratitude to SDSI, Connect and Springboard for helping me realize my dreams and create a context to do the same for others.  Consider yourself lucky to be a part of the program."
-Isaiah Truman, CEO, EZIA Human Performance,

“When I was asked to become a part of SDSI, it didn’t take long to say yes. The people involved, the mission, the opportunity to help others and for me to learn from others was too good to be true. I have basically spent my 41 years in retail paying attention to my business and going to trade shows and industry events…and I’ve been to more than I can count…but I finally realized it was a bigger world and I needed to be a part of it…I’ve always believed in change and learning but it was time to expand my 'box'… maybe even get out of it!"
Dave Nash, President and CEO, Sun Diego Boardshops


“SDSI has helped tremendously in shaping the foundation of my business through exposure and networking opportunities - and all before even becoming a member. In just this past year, SDSI introduced me to Craig Dawson of Sports Insurance Solutions who now provides our coverage. At another SDSI event, "Science of Sports", I met the guys from Destroyer Equipment and we now resell their skateboard pads. We are excited about becoming a member of the SDSI organization and are truly grateful for the opportunity…thank you Michael B."
Brad Beren, Founder and Owner, Boostamonte Mountainboarding


“Tony Finn and I have formed 2 companies as a result of the relationship that we built at SDSI. Without SDSI, these two companies would not have been built.”
Marco Thompson, Managing Director, Express Ventures
Tony Finn, Founder, Liquid Force

   
"SDSI is the only place in the country where our industry execs can get together and meet in the type of forum. Not only should you join SDSI but you should use the resources SDSI offers as much as you can!"
Brian Enge, VP Strategic Partners, Active Network (former CEO, Zoot Sports)

    
“The more you give the more you receive, CONNECT SDSI does a great job of connecting people to build businesses”
Jim Stroesser, CEO, Adio Footwear


"Since we began this journey, nothing has compared to the fortune of what we gained from our relationship with SDSI. Their EIR's give up valuable time to make a difference in the lives of our local business owners. They are committed, passionate and genuinely driven by seeing us succeed."
Keir Dillon, CEO, Frends


"We have been working really hard to prepare Shaper Studios for the Springboard Program and couldn't be more excited to start the next chapter of development with SDSI. This alignment will allow us to work closely with some of the great business minds in Southern California as we grow and add value to the San Diego sports community."
Chris Clark, Founder & CEO, Shaper Studios

Mission

SD Sport Innovators is the heartbeat of the Southern California sports business community.  We inspire sports innovation through connections, networking, mentoring, education and access to capital. 

SD Sport Innovators (SDSI) is a non-profit, business accelerating, trade organization that connects and drives the growth of Southern California's vibrant sports economy by offering innovative programs and services for start ups, mature companies and service providers.  We offer mentoring, education and capital funding opportunities for start-ups; best practice collaboration, access to new technology, and public policy advocacy for mature companies; as well as deal flow to our service providers and the Southern California Investment Community.