Bringing the Power of Data to the Golf Industry
At Downgrain Labs, I believe the golf industry is at a turning point — one where data, technology, and innovation will reshape how businesses grow, facilities operate, and golfers experience the game.
I founded Downgrain Labs because I’ve seen firsthand how access to high-quality data can transform industries. In my previous career as an executive at a publicly-traded B2B data company, I was at the forefront of building data products that changed how businesses operated. I know what great data looks like, how to structure it, and—most importantly—how to make it useful.
But I also know golf. I understand the challenges those in the industry face, the gaps in available technology, and the untapped opportunities waiting to be unlocked. That’s why I believe Downgrain Labs is uniquely positioned to build the most complete, accurate, and actionable intelligence platform in the game.
A New Era of Golf Intelligence
Golf’s data ecosystem today is fragmented and outdated. While there is a wealth of information on golf facilities across the internet, there is no centralized, reliable source of truth.
In the summer of 2024, I experienced this firsthand while planning multiple golf trips. I wanted to find a public driving range with grass tees in Columbus, Ohio. I wanted to find the best daily fee course for under $100 in Rockford, Illinois. I wanted to see a comprehensive list of private clubs in my town. And I was shocked to realize there wasn’t a single tool that provided any of this information in a clean, intelligent way.
I knew that if I had this problem, others did too. And I also knew that with my background in sports data, AI, and B2B intelligence, I was uniquely suited to solve it. This began my quest to understand where the golf industry lacks accessible, high-quality data.
What sets us apart isn’t just a love for golf — it’s a proven ability to build data products that drive real business impact.
- Decades of Expertise – With 15+ years of experience in data, AI, and sports technology, I understand what it takes to build and scale game-changing intelligence platforms.
- Deep Industry Relationships – From my time in Major League Baseball to my leadership at a top-tier data company, I’ve built a network across sports tech, AI, and B2B intelligence that allows us to move fast and execute at a high level.
- More Than Just a Platform – Downgrain Labs isn’t just a database—it’s an innovation lab focused on rethinking how data and technology intersect with golf. Today, we’re building a golf intelligence platform to help businesses, but tomorrow, we’re exploring tools for business strategy, golfer research, and golf course development.
Why Downgrain Labs?
The Future of Golf Starts Here
The golf industry is ready to modernize. I started Downgrain Labs to help businesses make that leap—leveraging data, AI, and modern technology to create new opportunities across the game.
At Downgrain Labs, we’re not just building a product. We’re building the foundation for the next generation of golf intelligence.
Derek Smith
Founder, Downgrain Labs
