Venture capitalist Kara Nortman has emerged as a trailblazer in the world of women's sports, betting early on its potential and now actively shaping a booming market.
Through her fund Monarch Collective, launched in 2023 with $250 million dedicated exclusively to women's sports, Nortman has positioned herself at the forefront of a cultural and economic shift, as reported by TechCrunch.
The Rise of Women's Sports: A Historical Perspective
Historically, women's sports have been undervalued and underfunded, often overshadowed by their male counterparts despite generating significant viewership and passion.
Nortman's journey began with co-founding Angel City FC in Los Angeles alongside Natalie Portman and Julie Uhrman, a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team that became a case study in commercial success even amidst on-field challenges.
Creating a Market with Strategic Investments
Her vision extends beyond a single team, with Monarch Collective taking ownership stakes in multiple NWSL teams, including San Diego Wave, and exploring international opportunities like a potential minority stake in Chelsea Women’s team.
This strategic investment approach is not just about funding but about building sustainable, profitable businesses around women's leagues, a sector Deloitte predicts could reach $2.35 billion in global revenue by 2025.
Impact on Athletes and Communities
The impact of Nortman’s work is profound, providing female athletes with better resources, visibility, and opportunities while inspiring communities to rally behind women's sports as a cultural force.
Her efforts have also attracted attention from celebrities, athletes, and other VCs, amplifying the narrative that women's sports are not a niche but a mainstream investment opportunity.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Optimism
Despite the current boom—with the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries playing their first season and media rights deals expanding—Nortman remains cautiously optimistic, aware of past surges that fizzled out.
She emphasizes the need for sustained investment and structural changes to ensure this moment translates into a lasting legacy for women's sports.
As the global sports market is projected to grow to $700 billion by 2026, Nortman’s pioneering efforts could redefine how future generations view and value female athletes, potentially leading to multiple billion-dollar franchises over the next decade.
Alfred Lee
