As Detroit gears up for the 2024 NFL Draft on April 25, the spotlight extends beyond future NFL stars to how seasoned athletes are using their earnings and influence to make an impact across various industries, setting a precedent for both current and upcoming athletes.
As the world of sports and finance continues to collide, several athletes are stepping up their game beyond the playing field, venturing into the dynamic world of investments. From venture capital initiatives to backing tech startups and sustainable businesses, these sports stars are diversifying their portfolios and impacting industries.
Ryan Nece Takes On Venture Capital
Ryan Nece, a former NFL player known for his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions, has transitioned into a must-watch player in the venture capital space. Through his firm, Next Play Capital, Nece has raised an impressive $200 million for its third fund to connect professional athletes and entertainers with elite venture capital investments.
With a portfolio that includes powerhouse VC firms like Accel and Greylock, Nece is leading by example, showing how athletes can leverage their earnings and influence in high-growth ventures.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Investment Slam Dunk
Shaquille O’Neal, the legendary NBA center, has built a remarkable investment portfolio that includes tech giants like Google and Apple and consumer-facing brands such as Five Guys and Krispy Kreme.
With strategic investments in startups and franchises, O’Neal showcases the potential of athlete involvement in diverse business ventures, proving that strategic investments can lead to substantial financial success.
Roger Federer’s Winning Investment Strokes
Tennis great Roger Federer is a champion not just on the court but also in the business arena, with investments in the Swiss running shoe brand On and the Chilean food tech startup NotCo. Federer’s business history and selective investment strategy underscore the importance of aligning personal brand and values with business ventures that promise growth and innovation.
Mario Gotze’s Goal For Innovation
Soccer star Mario Gotze co-founded Companion-M, a venture firm supporting early-stage, climate, and health tech entrepreneurs. Gotze’s commitment to driving positive societal change through innovation and sustainability is evident in his portfolio, which focuses on startups aiming to decarbonize the economy.
Alex Rodriguez: From the Diamond to the Boardroom
Alex Rodriguez has successfully transitioned from baseball superstar to savvy business investor. Through A-Rod Corp and his partnership with VCP Ventures, Rodriguez focuses on the technology and entertainment sectors, offering founders capital and strategic growth support. His notable early investment in Snapchat highlights his ability to identify and invest in emerging tech trends.
Magic Johnson’s Impact Investments
Magic Johnson has long been blending business success with social impact. Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, he has engaged in investments that support urban communities, ranging from Starbucks franchises to sports teams and tech companies.
Johnson’s strategic focus on community support and development highlights the potential for athletes to drive social change through their investment choices.
Chris Smalling: Championing Sustainability
The soccer defender Chris Smalling has ventured into the investment world, focusing on social and environmental sustainability. Through For Good 2021, Smalling backs startups tackling global issues, from sustainable textiles to plant-based foods.
His investment approach emphasizes the importance of ethical business practices and sustainability in driving future business success.
Join us at Benzinga’s 2024 NFL Draft event in Detroit on April 25 for a unique opportunity to see how athletes turn their sports success into business ventures. This one-day event at Campus Martius offers insights from sports legends like Donovan Edwards and Frankie LaPenna on leaping over the field to the boardroom.
Secure your ticket now for an inspiring experience at the intersection of sports and business. Don’t miss out—tickets are selling quickly!
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