The sports equipment industry in the US is a vibrant sector that offers everything from fitness gear to professional athletic supplies. Companies include well-known brands, innovative startups, and niche manufacturers focusing on sports apparel, gear, and technology. With growing health awareness, the demand for high-quality, eco-friendly products is rising. Additionally, technological advancements are shaping the future, with smart wearables and connected fitness solutions becoming commonplace. Companies are adapting to trends such as sustainability and direct-to-consumer sales, revealing a shift in consumer preferences.


The investors in this list represent a dynamic mix, including venture capital firms, private equity funds, and corporates. Headquartered primarily in key US cities like San Francisco and New York, these investors vary in size and lifecycle stage. From Y Combinator, founded in 2005, to others like North Castle Partners, operating since 1997, they collectively made significant moves in the sports equipment sector in 2024, totaling over 1,700 investments among 16 firms, showcasing robust activity and interest in this growing market.


Top 16 Sports Equipment Investors in the US


1. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator founded in 2010, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, they invested in SidelineSwap, a platform that facilitates the buying and selling of sports equipment, which highlights their engagement in the sports sector. Other investments include Theres, M80, COOLMATE, and Hykso, showcasing their focus on innovative startups across various industries, including esports and consumer products, which may intersect with sports equipment.


2. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. The firm provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Among its notable transactions, the fund has invested in Rhone Apparel, a company focused on performance apparel, and Hydrow, which specializes in connected rowing machines. Additionally, they participated in the seed funding for Nextiles, a company developing smart fabric fitness trackers, showcasing their commitment to innovation in the sports equipment and fitness technology sectors.


3. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources like the Startup School. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments, Y Combinator has backed companies in the sports equipment sector, including FightCamp, a manufacturer of at-home boxing gyms, and Aviron Interactive, which focuses on connected fitness solutions. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement in the sports equipment industry, alongside its broader technology focus.


4. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

Sosv is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, based in the United States, that specializes in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, Sosv connects innovative companies with investors, providing not only venture capital investment but also resources to help startups grow and succeed. Among their notable transactions, Sosv has invested in Overhand Fitness, which focuses on fitness solutions, and VITALI Wear, a company that develops smart wearables for health and fitness monitoring. These investments highlight Sosv's engagement in the sports equipment sector, alongside their broader focus on health and climate technology.


5. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In 2024, the Government of Canada has been actively involved in the sports equipment sector, with notable transactions including grants to HockeyStickMan, Curling Canada, and AthletesCAN, which support the development and promotion of sports in Canada. Additionally, it provided debt financing to Équipements récréatifs Jambette inc, indicating a financial commitment to a company likely involved in the sports equipment industry. These actions reflect the government's role in fostering sports and recreational activities, making it a relevant investor in this sector.


6. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, with a focus on underserved communities. They offer flexible capital solutions to help entrepreneurs grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in several transactions within the sports equipment sector, including debt financing for Orthotech Sports Medical Equipment, which raised $3,245,000 in 2016, and Gator Made Golf, which also received debt financing in 2018. These transactions highlight their engagement in the sports equipment industry, alongside their broader investment strategy that includes agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing.


7. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has made over 1,000 investments, with a focus on providing capital and strategic guidance to startups across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Notably, FJ Labs has invested in SidelineSwap, a platform that facilitates the buying and selling of sports equipment, through multiple funding rounds from 2016 to 2023. This involvement highlights their commitment to the sports equipment sector. Additionally, they have invested in Tracksmith, a company dedicated to running apparel, further emphasizing their interest in sports-related ventures. With 169 investments in 2024 alone, FJ Labs continues to support innovative companies, including those in the sports equipment industry.


8. Hax

  • Website: hax.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 55
  • LinkedIn: hax

HAX is a venture capital firm and startup incubator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in supporting hard tech startups by providing funding, engineering support, and access to manufacturing resources. HAX aims to accelerate the growth of early-stage companies through a collaborative environment and extensive networks. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in VITALI Wear, which has raised funds through seed rounds and convertible notes. This company is likely involved in the development of wearable technology, which is relevant to the sports equipment industry. Additionally, Hax has made investments in other startups like Portable Scores and Mofily, which may also have applications in sports or fitness contexts, further demonstrating their engagement in the sports equipment sector.


9. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm founded in 1988, based in New York, New York. It specializes in providing flexible capital solutions and focuses on smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notable transactions in the sports equipment sector include the acquisition of Arena Italia, a company known for swimwear and sports apparel, and Sport Court, which specializes in sports flooring solutions. Additionally, Riverside has been involved with Connor Sports Flooring, further solidifying its presence in the sports equipment industry. Their strategic guidance and capital support aim to foster transformative growth in these sectors.


10. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm specializing in investment management, focusing on consumer brands across various sectors. Founded in 1989, the firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton aims to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies. Notable transactions in the sports equipment context include a strategic growth investment in Sweaty Betty, a premium activewear brand, and a $75 million growth capital investment in Peloton, an indoor cycling company. Additionally, L Catterton's investment in Rhone Apparel, a men’s activewear brand, and the acquisition of Cicli Pinarello, a premium cycling brand, further solidify their commitment to the sports equipment industry.


11. Tiger Global

  • Website: tigerglobal.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies that leverage technology across various sectors. Notably, Tiger Global has made significant investments in the sports equipment industry, particularly through its involvement with Peloton, a leading stationary bike startup. Tiger Global led the Series C funding round for Peloton, contributing to its growth and expansion in the fitness market. Additionally, the firm participated in earlier funding rounds for Peloton, including Series B and Series E-K, showcasing its ongoing commitment to the company. This strategic focus on technology-driven fitness solutions positions Tiger Global as a relevant player in the sports equipment investment landscape.


12. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

  • Website: nea.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. NEA partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. Notably, NEA has participated in several transactions relevant to the sports equipment industry, including a $6.5 million Series A funding round for Cotopaxi, an outdoor gear and apparel company, and a significant $90 million Series B funding for FightCamp, a connected fitness manufacturer of at-home boxing gyms. These investments highlight NEA's engagement in the sports and fitness sector, alongside their broader focus on technology and healthcare.


13. Gaingels

  • Website: gaingels.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 60
  • LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. Gaingels has been involved in several notable transactions in the sports sector, including investments in Overtime, which raised $80 million in Series C funding, and Strive, a sports tech company that raised $6 million in Series A funding. Additionally, they participated in Ergatta's $30 million Series A funding round, further showcasing their engagement in the sports equipment and technology space. Gaingels also offers scholarship programs and advisory services to enhance board diversity, reinforcing their commitment to supporting diverse leadership in all sectors, including sports.


14. Silicon Valley Bank

  • Website: svb.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 31
  • LinkedIn: silicon-valley-bank

Silicon Valley Bank is a commercial bank founded in 1983, specializing in providing financial services to the innovation economy, particularly tech startups and venture capital firms. They offer a range of products including business banking, global payments, and asset management, helping clients navigate financial challenges and support their growth. In the sports equipment context, Silicon Valley Bank has been involved in several notable transactions, including a £50 million debt facility for Castore, a British sportswear brand aiming to expand and compete with industry giants. They also participated in funding rounds for SportPursuit, a sports gear retailer, and AlterG, which focuses on innovative rehabilitation equipment. These investments highlight their active role in the sports equipment industry, alongside their broader focus on technology and innovation.


15. Elysian Park Ventures


Elysian Park Ventures is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in the sports industry. The firm provides capital and strategic advisory services to companies at various stages of growth, particularly those innovating in sectors that intersect with sports, technology, health, and commerce. Notable transactions include a $2 million seed round for Ida Sports, a company focused on women's sports equipment, and a significant $45 million Series A investment in Freeletics, a fitness startup that offers training solutions. Additionally, they have invested in Diamond Kinetics, which develops technology for sports training and performance analysis. These investments highlight Elysian Park Ventures' commitment to supporting innovation in the sports equipment and fitness sectors.


16. Stadia Ventures


Stadia Ventures is a venture capital firm based in St. Louis, Missouri, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in the sports and esports sectors, providing funding, accelerator programs, and mentorship to startups and entrepreneurs. They help these companies navigate the challenges of growth and innovation in their respective industries. Notable transactions include investments in Ida Sports, which raised funds to develop women's sports equipment, and Senaptec, which focuses on technology for athletic performance enhancement. Other investments include Lasso and Wave Company, both of which are involved in sports-related innovations. Uplift Labs, another investment, provides AI-powered technology for movement tracking, which can be relevant for sports training and equipment development. Stadia Ventures connects its clients with industry experts and resources to foster development and success in the sports equipment sector.



Sports Equipment Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
HaxSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50201255
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
Tiger GlobalNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-200200125
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
GaingelsBurlington, Vermont, United States (USA)11-50201560
Silicon Valley BankSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)5001-10000198331
Elysian Park VenturesLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)1-1020163
Stadia VenturesSt. Louis, Missouri, United States (USA)1-1020150


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