Information provided by: ITC-Diligence International, experts in Foreign Trade Zone operations.
When technology meets athletics, the results are game-changing and in Southern Nevada, the stage is set. Through the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA), companies in sports technology gain access to strategic tools that support growth, including site selection assistance, business incentives, and Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) #89, which can reduce costs for firms working with imported components or hardware.
These advantages help SportsTech companies move from concept to commercialization with fewer barriers.
Opening the Playbook: What SportsTech Really Covers
SportsTech encompasses devices, systems and analytics designed to boost player performance, enhance fan experiences and sharpen venue operations.
Key segments include:
- Wearable technology and sensors
- Data tracking and analytics for teams and leagues
- Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) for immersive engagement
- Smart venue systems and real-time infrastructure
This convergence of technology and sport is gaining global traction, and Las Vegas has become one of its most active proving grounds.
Momentum in Las Vegas
Recent developments show how Southern Nevada is emerging as a SportsTech hub:
- During the 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, league teams engaged in a startup showcase called the “NBA Launchpad,” giving innovators direct exposure with teams and partners.
- The Vegas Golden Knights partnered with a robotics/AI specialist to pilot new fan experience technologies at home games.
- More than 100 SportsTech companies now operate in the region; investor interest and venture activity have climbed sharply in the past year.
The region’s constant flow of global events gives innovators an environment where technologies can be deployed, measured, and refined faster than in traditional markets.
Why Companies Choose Las Vegas
- Real-time testing environments. Allegiant Stadium, T-Mobile Arena, The Sphere, and collegiate venues provide high-volume settings for pilots and product validation.
- A growing talent pipeline. UNLV’s Sports Innovation Institute and engineering programs support research, athlete analytics, and product development.
- Manufacturing and distribution accessibility. Las Vegas sits at the center of West Coast and Southwest supply chains, supporting both hardware and software deployment.
- Year-round event density. Conventions, tournaments, and global sporting events create constant demand for technology and its supporting infrastructure.
FTZ #89: A Strategic Advantage for Hardware-Driven SportsTech
Companies importing sensors, electronics, or wearable components can benefit from Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) #89, administered by LVGEA.
FTZ #89 helps qualified businesses:
- Defer and reduce import duties
- Improve cash flow
- Streamline customs procedures
- Lower operational costs for global supply chain operations
For SportsTech companies manufacturing or staging hardware in Southern Nevada, FTZ #89 provides a competitive pathway for rapid scaling.
A Market Built for What Comes Next
Sports technology is expanding, and Las Vegas continues to strengthen its role in the industry. For companies in analytics, performance tech, fan engagement, hardware, or venue innovation, Southern Nevada offers a fast, connected, and opportunity-rich environment.
