Ryan Sports Ventures

Ryan Sports Ventures is the sports investment arm of the Chicago-based Ryan family, focusing on investments in sports technologies, properties, and media. The firm seeks to partner with exceptional leaders in businesses with large addressable markets, aiming to add differentiated value and assist founders in reaching the next level of growth.

The firm's investment strategy centers on three key verticals: technology, properties, and content & media. In the technology sector, Ryan Sports Ventures focuses on novel products that impact athletic performance and fan engagement at scale. In properties, the firm invests in teams, leagues, and competitions, viewing them as central platforms for their investments. In content & media, Ryan Sports Ventures places significant value on compelling content and the development of engaged audiences, understanding modern consumption and monetization trends.

With a team comprising seasoned operators, technologists, and brand builders with over sixty years of experience in sports, Ryan Sports Ventures leverages its collective expertise, experience, and network to add value to its portfolio companies. The firm has a history of investing in iconic sports franchises, including the Chicago Bears, Penske Corporation, and several leading sports technology funds. Notable investments include a minority stake in Black Knight Football Club, which owns 100% of AFC Bournemouth of the English Premier League and is a significant minority investor in FC Lorient of France’s Ligue 1. Additionally, Ryan Sports Ventures has invested in sports technology companies and funds, as well as breakthrough sports media properties, establishing itself as a leading voice in the sports investment space.