IOC and Alibaba.com launch first phase of Athlete365 Business Accelerator programme

02 December 2024 –  The International Olympic Committee (IOC), in collaboration with Alibaba.com, has officially launched the first phase of the Athlete365 Business Accelerator programme, which aims to empower current and former elite athletes to transfer their skills into successful business ventures.

Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s Athlete365 Business Accelerator has attracted applications from hundreds of athletes worldwide, showcasing a diversity of backgrounds and experiences. Notably, 41 per cent of applicants identify as female and 10 per cent are Paralympians, with participants representing regions across Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America and Africa.

The programme offers participants tailored guidance through a phased approach, beginning with online learning modules, virtual bootcamps and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Delivered by experts from Alibaba.com, participants will explore critical areas such as e-commerce fundamentals, global trade and the integration of AI tools. The comprehensive structure aims to foster innovation, equipping athletes with the skills to bring their business ideas to life or scale existing ventures.

Tony Parker masterclass to kickstart the programme

To mark the launch, a masterclass featuring two-time Olympian and entrepreneur Tony Parker will be livestreamed on 3 December. This event, open to all athletes registered on Athlete365 and to anyone else interested, will spotlight Parker’s transition from professional basketball to business leadership, offering insights into the resilience and vision required for entrepreneurial success., will spotlight Parker’s transition from professional basketball to business leadership, offering insights into the resilience and vision required for entrepreneurial success.

The programme officially begins on 9 December, with bootcamps focused on creating business models and leveraging e-commerce platforms. Athletes will also gain hands-on experience with Alibaba.com’s cutting-edge AI tools, to simplify the process of global trade and communication. These technologies, which support 18 languages and connect users to an extensive network of suppliers and products, are set to provide participants with unique advantages in the competitive global market.

Addressing career transition challenges for athletes

Research from Alibaba.com underscores the need for such initiatives, revealing that 63 per cent of retired athletes encounter difficulties in career transitions. By supporting their journey into entrepreneurship, the Athlete365 Business Accelerator – together with other programmes offered to the athlete community via Athlete365 – empowers participants to channel their sporting values of excellence, teamwork and perseverance into business success.

“The Athlete365 Business Accelerator reflects our commitment to supporting athletes both during and after their competitive careers,” said IOC Athletes’ Commission Chair Emma Terho.

This programme offers athletes the resources to leverage their unique skills in entrepreneurship, allowing them to create new career paths. With partners like Alibaba.com, we are opening up valuable opportunities for athletes to connect with global markets and build successful businesses.

Emma Terho, IOC Athletes’ Commission Chair

Alibaba.com President Kuo Zhang said: ” Successful athletes and entrepreneurs share similar characteristics. Both have unrivalled grit and determination, a willingness to succeed, and an appetite to take risks. However, after their sporting successes, athletes often struggle to find their feet with a new career.”

At Alibaba.com, we want to make a transition into the world of e-commerce and entrepreneurship easy, and are proud to participate in the Athlete365 initiative by providing practical tools and guidance on how to take part in global trade. We see tremendous potential for the Athlete365 Business Accelerator programme to provide a bridge for athletes, enabling them to harness their skills in new business ventures.

Kuo Zhang, Alibaba.com President

Anne-Sophie Voumard, Managing Director of IOC Television and Marketing Services, added: “Our Worldwide Olympic Partners play a vital role in supporting athletes at every stage of their journey. Through initiatives like the Athlete365 Business Accelerator, we are harnessing the expertise and resources of Partners like Alibaba.com to empower athletes with skills and opportunities that extend beyond their sporting careers.”

This programme reflects the shared commitment of the IOC and its Partners to help athletes succeed, both on and off the field of play.

Anne-Sophie Voumard, Managing Director of IOC Television and Marketing Services