Bridging the Gap Between Fans and the Game: How Spokenote is Redefining Engagement

In the ever-evolving world of sports, creating meaningful connections between fans, players, and brands has never been more important. At the heart of this transformation is Spokenote, a company revolutionizing the fan experience through cutting-edge technology and creative innovation. Recently recognized with the Sponsorship and Excellence Innovation Award by SMA, Spokenote is setting a new standard for how technology can deepen emotional connections in the world of sports.

At the center of Spokenote’s story is their groundbreaking partnership with the Indiana Pacers. In a historic first for U.S. professional sports, Spokenote introduced the concept of a scannable jersey, where fans could instantly access exclusive digital content simply by scanning a player’s jersey.

Imagine watching Tyrese Haliburton make an unforgettable play and being able to interact with content tied directly to that moment — immersing yourself in highlights, promotions, and more, all with the tap of a phone.

For Spokenote’s Founder and CEO, John Wechsler, it’s all about creating a bridge between the physical and digital worlds. “We’re not just offering technology; we’re offering an experience,” John explains. “It’s about making an emotional connection that brings fans closer to the game and gives them new ways to engage with their favorite teams and players.”

The innovation doesn’t stop at jerseys. Spokenote is expanding this idea to memorabilia, making keepsakes more meaningful than ever before. John recalls a moment that epitomizes their vision: standing on the Pacers’ court as an honorary captain, a special video of the occasion was created and paired with a customized basketball to commemorate the experience. It’s a tangible way to make memories last, seamlessly blending tech with sentimentality.

The company’s success is fueled by a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. For John, the entrepreneurial journey hasn’t always been easy. He reflects on a time when being an entrepreneur wasn’t celebrated the way it is today, but he never wavered in his mission to disrupt and create value. “Being an entrepreneur means putting yourself out there to solve problems and build connections,” he says. “It’s about listening to your customers and constantly striving to improve.”

This approach to innovation has become the cornerstone of Spokenote’s success. Much like the famed Google 20% time that encouraged employees to pursue passion projects, Spokenote fosters a culture where experimentation is encouraged, and ideas are free to flow. This creative spirit is what gave rise to their industry-changing innovations like scannable jerseys and video-enabled memorabilia.

The impact of Spokenote’s technology extends far beyond the game. By giving brands and sponsors a new way to connect with fans, they’re reshaping the sponsorship landscape. For John and his team, the mission is clear: create experiences that resonate, inspire, and build lasting memories. “It’s about going beyond traditional sponsorships to forge connections that feel personal and meaningful,” John says.

As Spokenote continues to push boundaries, it’s clear their work is just getting started. Their vision for the future of fan engagement is bold and bright, blending technology and creativity to bring people closer to the moments that matter most.

For their innovation, resilience, and dedication to enhancing the fan experience, we congratulate John Wechsler and the entire Spokenote team on their well-earned recognition. Their story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the impact of innovative thinking.

With Spokenote leading the charge, the future of sports sponsorship is more connected — and more exciting — than ever. Click the link to listen to SMA Founder and CEO Paula Beadle's 7in7 interview with John: https://sponsorshipassociation.com/2025/01/21/7in7-entrepreneurship-meets-sponsorship/