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Ryan Sports Ventures
Ryan Sports Ventures is the sports investment arm of the Chicago-based Ryan family. Founded in 2022, the company is based in Chicago, Illinois.
Ryan Sports Ventures
Ryan Sports Ventures is the sports investment arm of the Chicago-based Ryan family. Founded in 2022, the company is based in Chicago, Illinois. It invests in sports technologies, properties, and media, having made 21 investments to date.
General information
Firm type
Venture Capital
Location
Region
Latin America
Country
United States
City
Chicago
Corporate office
Chicago, IL, United States
Additional offices
New York, NY · Los Angeles, CA · Boston, MA · Sao Paulo, Brazil
Principals
Rob Ryan
Managing Partner
Paul Ryan
Partner
Brian Ryan
Partner
Pat Ryan
Investment Committee Member
Patrick G. Ryan
Investment Committee Member
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
How does Ryan Sports Ventures source proprietary deal flow?
The firm leverages its family's three-decade sports portfolio — including a stake in the Chicago Bears and a directorship at Penske Corporation — to access founders, leagues, and media properties. Its network includes relationships with specialist sports technology funds like ADvantage and Will Ventures, where it is a limited partner, giving it visibility into early-stage sports-tech companies before they seek broader institutional capital.
Does Ryan Sports Ventures participate in fund commitments or only direct deals?
Both. Its portfolio includes direct operating stakes in properties (AFC Bournemouth, FC Lorient, Moreirense Futebol Clube) and direct equity positions in companies like Playermaker, Quintar, and Greenfly. It also commits as a limited partner to sports-focused venture funds, including ADvantage Sports Tech Fund and Will Ventures.
How does the firm approach sports properties versus technology and media?
Properties serve as the central platforms around which other investments come to life. The firm acquires controlling or influential stakes in teams and leagues, then layers in technology companies that can enhance athlete performance, fan engagement, or commercial operations across those properties — a full-stack approach that treats teams as both assets and distribution channels.
Profile maintained by Altss using OSINT (open-source intelligence), regulatory filings, licensed data partners, and verified direct submissions. Read the methodology. Last updated: . Continuous refresh with full update cycles at least every 30 days.
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