William Hill launch tech Startup Accelerator

William Hill has launched a Startup Accelerator in Shoreditch, London and Tel Aviv, Israel under its newly formed WH Labs.

The initiative is a new partnership with technology entrepreneur Stuart Marks’ investment fund L Marks that aims to develop new betting technologies through the provision of funding, office space and mentorship.

“The purpose of WHLabs is to identify and develop technology innovations for the gambling and gaming industry, with customers’ needs at the core of each idea,” a William Hill statement said.

Eight tech startups will initially win a place on a 12-week accelerator programme running from September to December 2015 supported by an initial investment of GB 25 000 and office space in either Will Hill’s Shoreditch or Tel Aviv offices.

Chosen developers will gain access to the William Hill APIs, mentorship from William Hill leaders and third-party entrepreneurs and experience an “exchange week” between William Hill’s Shoreditch and Tel Aviv digital offices.

Six categories, each inspired by William Hill’s core business priorities, form the basis for applications. They comprise: Thrill of the Ride; omni-channel innovations; Technical efficiencies; Player Funnel; New Products; and Surprise Us.

“Our industry is ripe for further disruption and through our WHLabs Accelerator we will nurture the next generation of technology startups, while helping ensure we remain at the cutting-edge of omni-channel change” said Andy Lee, managing director of William Hill’s Online business.

“William Hill is at the leading edge of digital betting and we’re excited to work with the most innovative startups to identify and then help build the next big opportunities in gambling.”

At the end of the 12-week programme, the winning startup will receive up to GBP 150 000 in investment from WH Labs.