The Sacramento Kings launched Capitalize in 2016 as the NBA’s first crowdsourced startup competition. Over the years, Capitalize has rallied the greater Sacramento region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem around this annual pitch event and fan voting experience. 

This contest has supported and promoted more than 100 startups while showcasing new products and services on the NBA’s global stage. In 2023, the Kings are expanding the Capitalize platform to include two new programs, Capitalize: Food and Capitalize: Innovation.

Capitalize: Food will focus on start-ups, culinary entrepreneurs and chefs with innovative food products looking to showcase their skills and share their passion for food with Kings fans. The competition will feature some of the most talented food entrepreneurs from around the region, who will compete to demonstrate their creativity, skills, and unique culinary perspective.