IBM becomes an official cybersecurity sponsorship partner of MLSE, technology consulting services transforming the digital experience for Toronto Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs fans

This sponsorship includes a sports and STEM development program for young Canadians

TORONTO, the October 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ – IBM Canada today announced a new agreement with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), which manufactures IBM (NYSE: IBM) the official and exclusive cybersecurity and technology consulting partner of the Toronto Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs. This builds on the legacy of more than twenty years of partnership with MLSE.

The agreement covers a wide range of partnership activities, including:

• Building on cybersecurity enablers: MLSE is one of the few sports and entertainment companies in North America with a dedicated cybersecurity practice. Since 2020, IBM MLSE has provided technological solutions to detect and respond to threats such as SIEM QRadar to help to provide fans with safe and reliable digital experiences. Additionally, the Maple Leafs and Raptors have access to the offensive safety team X Force Red.
• Digital Transformation Support for the Maple Leafs and Raptors: IBM and MLSE work together to create and innovate digital transformation for fans of the Maple Leafs, Raptors and Scotiabank Arena.
• Acquire digital STEM skills: IBM will receive the partnership title of a Sports + STEM foundation as part of the MLSE LaunchPad providing technology and resources that encourage young people to explore ways to integrate digital sports skills and STEM into their lives.
• Raptors Uprising Team Reinforcement: As an AI and cloud partner for the Raptors Uprising, the NBA League’s official MLSE team 2KIBM will continue to use its technology and services to make team composition decisions and integrate IBM services with player selection and movement.

“This growth of partnership In between IBM Canada and the MLSE goes beyond technology or sport,” he said David McCannpresident by IBM Canada. “It also shows the unique commitment and Cooperation with IBM to our partners, customers and employees to foster an ecosystem of innovation. Combine the strengths of our organization with the maple leaves and the birds of prey for the services of Internet security and digital technology, as well as other assets ranging from STEM programming to employee engagement. fansdo that partnership unique.”

“Our partnership with IBM has evolved over the years and now helps us fulfill our ongoing commitment to improving the fan experience at Scotiabank Arena,” he said Jordan Vader, Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships at MLSE. “We will continue to create unique opportunities for the next generation of enthusiasts, including a STEM program at MLSE LaunchPad, and the partnership will also allow us to engage IBM employees and their network through unique experiences on our website.”

“IBM’s best capabilities will help us strengthen our cybersecurity practices in a rapidly changing world,” said Humza Teherany, Head of Digital and Technology at MLSE. “IBM’s well-known reputation for unparalleled digital innovation makes them a valued partner in our own journey to improve the experience for Maple Leafs and Raptors fans.”

IBM will also join the Maple Leafs and Raptors in introducing a new IBM Basketball League program, increased fan engagement, opportunities with Raptors Uprising, and IBM’s appointment as the official and exclusive partner of the Raptors Practice Court at Scotiabank Arena. IBM will also have a strong brand presence on jerseys, signage, logo placements and more, as well as employee and customer engagement opportunities.

This partnership with the Maple Leafs and Raptors is another example of IBM’s ability to partner with sports and entertainment organizations around the world to deliver the best technology solutions and digital experiences for fans.

For more information about IBM Canada, visit: www.ibm.com/ca-en

For more information on MLSE, visit: www.MLSE.com

Media contacts:
Lorraine Baldwin, IBM Canada: [email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1924443/IBM_Lockup_Black_17.jpg

SOURCEIBM Canada

For more information: CONTACT: Charzie Abendanio, MLSE, [email protected]