How Monarch Collective scored some of the biggest early deals in women’s sports

In a recent episode of StrictlyVC Download, TechCrunch Editor in Chief Connie Loizos engaged in a compelling conversation with Kara Nortman, the visionary co-founder of Monarch Collective. This groundbreaking fund, launched with an impressive $250 million in 2023, stands as the first dedicated exclusively to women's sports, coinciding perfectly with the surge in popularity of the genre. Nortman, however, is no stranger to the sports landscape. Her previous venture, the Angel City Football Club, demonstrated the potential for women’s soccer, generating $30 million in revenue and showcasing that stadiums could be filled for women’s matches. This success story is a testament to her pivotal role in shaping the market. During their discussion, they delved into Monarch's unique investment strategy, which involves making concentrated bets and dedicating significant time—an approach not typically seen in private equity firms. They also examined the sources of revenue in women’s sports, including merchandise, sponsorships, ticket sales, and media deals, while pondering the sustainability of this exciting growth. For those interested in keeping up with developments in this dynamic field, StrictlyVC Download releases new episodes every Tuesday. Tune in on Apple, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform to stay informed.