EINDHOVEN, September 20, 2023 – During the ELIS Innovation Summit for Sports & Vitality in Eindhoven today, AmiGo by Tech2Play was announced as the winner of the 13th Dutch Sports Innovation Award 2023, valued at €15,000. Founder Michiel van der Boom received the award from Peter Kentie, a member of the independent jury, and Maes van Landschot, the Eindhoven Alderman for Finance, Sports, Heritage, and Regional Collaboration.
The Dutch Sports Innovation Award is an incentive prize for an innovative and promising product or service focusing on top-level sports and/or recreational sports. It encompasses products or services that are so well-developed that their market value and impact on sports and a healthy active lifestyle are clear or easily assessable. The award is an initiative by Cluster Sports & Technology to support and stimulate innovative startups in the domain of Sports & Vitality.
An independent jury consisting of Koen Lemmink (University of Groningen), Dirk Vinken (FGHS), Ilse Storm (RIVM), Peter Kentie (Eindhoven 365), and Jan Hoefnagels (independent entrepreneur and consultant) selected three finalists from all entries, with AmiGo being chosen as the winner.
AmiGo | Tech2Play AmiGo, which focuses on sports and activities for individuals with disabilities, is a small robot that can be attached to the front of a wheelchair, both manual and electric. Thanks to AmiGo, wheelchair-bound individuals can actively participate in ball sports and games, including Kickit, the wheelchair soccer sport.
Peter Kentie, on behalf of the jury, explains the choice for AmiGo by Tech2Play: “AmiGo addresses a clear market need and provides an attractive and practical solution. The innovation and clever use of technology are not only in the concept itself but also in how the product is made. The concept effectively demonstrates how innovation and technology can help reduce barriers to physical activity and increase motivation for participation. Behind the innovation is a clearly defined business model, instilling confidence that it can become a successful product. The market launch is currently underway with clear ambitions to further grow in the coming years. The AmiGo innovation comes with a smile…”
