2025 Orlando Sports Profile: Orlando Magic Innovation Department
Meet some of these forward-thinkers making an impact in Orlando’s dynamic sports scene.
Orlando Magic Innovation Department
L to R: Zachary Webster – Innovation Specialist, Jay Riola – Chief Strategy Officer,
Andrew Bekemeyer – Assistant Director of Innovation
For the Orlando Magic, innovation is a core value. The Magic’s dedicated team of individuals are focused on uncovering new opportunities to provide legendary experiences for its fans.
Hosting events that offer both internal employees and external parties the opportunity to develop new ideas and innovative solutions that take the Magic and the fan experience to the next level, the Magic ensure they remain industry leaders. The Orlando Magic Venture Challenge powered by LEAD, which offers funding for startups, is just one of these programs that propel the Magic forward by partnering with companies on the forefront of innovation.
The award-winning Orlando Magic Mobile App presented by Total Wireless originated in the team’s innovation lab and offers the fan a frictionless game day in the arena and once-in-a-lifetime experiences with behind-the-scenes access. From photos on the court, to fine dining overlooking the court, the fan can make a lifelong memory through purchasing unique experiences available in the app’s Marketplace. The team became renowned for their invention of Magic Money, which allows season ticket holders to enjoy their team without the worry of missing games. If life’s demands get in the way, they can return their tickets for any game they can’t attend and receive Magic Money to use in the arena at a future game, ensuring they receive the full value of their investment.
These initiatives highlight just some of the team’s most popular innovative programs. Inspired and led by the innovation department, the entire Orlando Magic staff incorporates innovative thinking into their daily work, making innovation a team effort throughout the company.
Advanced technologies are used in analytics, game entertainment, fan engagement, player performance, sales and marketing and more. Together, the team is committed to enhancing the fan experience through innovation to truly Make It Magic.
