Sapphire Sport
Description
Sapphire Sport is a dedicated venture capital fund operating under the umbrella of Sapphire Ventures, a prominent global venture capital firm. Launched in 2019, this specialized vehicle was established with a clear mandate to invest in early-stage technology companies that are transforming the sports, media, and entertainment industries. The fund, which commenced with Sapphire Sport I at $115 million, targets innovative startups from Seed to Series B rounds, seeking to capitalize on the significant digital disruption and evolution within these sectors. Its strategic focus encompasses areas such as fan engagement platforms, athlete performance technologies, sports betting innovation, new media distribution channels, and advanced data analytics solutions.
The fund's investment thesis is centered on identifying companies that leverage technology to enhance experiences, optimize performance, and create new revenue streams across the sports and entertainment ecosystem. Sapphire Sport aims to partner with visionary founders who are building scalable businesses with strong market potential. Beyond capital, the fund provides its portfolio companies with strategic guidance, operational support, and access to Sapphire Ventures' extensive network of enterprise clients, limited partners, and industry experts. This collaborative approach is designed to accelerate growth and facilitate market penetration for its portfolio companies.
Sapphire Sport has built a notable portfolio since its inception, including investments in companies like Tonal, a smart home gym system; Overtime, a digital sports media company; FuboTV, a live TV streaming service; WSC Sports, an AI-powered video content platform; and Flowcode, a QR code technology company. These investments exemplify the fund's commitment to backing companies that are at the forefront of innovation in their respective niches. By combining deep industry expertise with a robust venture capital framework, Sapphire Sport positions itself as a key financial and strategic partner for the next generation of leaders in the sports and entertainment technology landscape.
Investor Profile
Sapphire Sport has backed more than 28 startups, with 3 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 10 rounds, about 36% of its total and boasts 1 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
- Strong thematic focus on Sports, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Gaming.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $12M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (32%)
- Series A (21%)
- Series B (21%)
- Series C (11%)
- Series D (7%)
- Series Unknown (7%)
Country Focus
- United States (89%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
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- Switzerland (4%)
- Finland (4%)
Industry Focus
- Sports
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Gaming
- Video Games
- Information Technology
- Esports
- Fitness
- Personal Health
- Software
- Online Games
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.
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