SBC has named five finalists for the 2026 edition of its First Pitch Americas start-up competition, with companies spanning artificial intelligence, sports betting data, and prediction markets set to compete during SBC Summit Americas next month.
The finalists will pitch their products on the Leaders Stage on June 11 as part of the competition, organised in collaboration with BettingStartups. The winning company will receive a support package valued at more than $100,000.
The finalists are Insight Play AI, Inc., Odditt, OddsBlaze, ParlayX, and The Sharps.
Insight Play AI deploys artificial intelligence agents for customer support services aimed at sports betting operators, while Odditt provides ready-made parlay and combination bets for sportsbooks and fantasy operators.
OddsBlaze offers real-time sports betting data and market alerts, and ParlayX aggregates prediction market opportunities for betting syndicates. The Sharps operates a bankroll tournament platform combining sports handicapping with poker-style competition structures.
The finalists will deliver three-minute presentations followed by question-and-answer sessions before a panel of judges with backgrounds in sports betting, venture capital, and start-up development.
The judging panel includes Paris Smith (Founder and CEO, DefytheOdds), Javier Altamirano (Global Head of Startup, Sportradar), Evan Meyer (Managing Partner, Astralus Capital Management), Scott Secord (Partner, Cardinal Sports Capital), and Meredith McPherson (CEO & Managing Partner, DRIVE by DraftKings). Jesse Learmonth of The Betting Startups Podcast will host the competition.
Paul Mills, Event Director of SBC, said the finalists reflected growing innovation across the Americas’ sports betting and gaming sector.
“This year’s First Pitch showcases the depth of start-up talent emerging across the Americas, with finalists bringing fresh ideas across AI, prediction markets, fantasy, data, and betting infrastructure,” Mills said. “SBC is proud to give these companies a platform to pitch their products, connect with investors, and build the connections needed to support their next stage of growth.”
The prize package includes promotional, legal, technical, and business development services from companies including Amazon Web Services, MetaBet, GameOn, and Vegas Kings.
The live final will take place during SBC Summit Americas on June 11.
Readers interested in attending SBC Summit Americas 2026 can register using promo code YOGOPARTNERVIP through this link.
