Mihir Kumar: Why the MLS has Launched a Venture Fund In-House

Today’s episode, I’m joined by Mihir Kumar.


Mihir is Senior Director for MLS Emerging Ventures, the in-house
investment arm for Major League Soccer. Having taken up the role
just over a year ago, it perfectly compliments his previous
experience in finance (at BCG) and sport (at Overtime).


Recently MLS Emerging Ventures announced the launch of the MLS
Innovation Lab, a program designed to shape the future of sports
through the identification of cutting-edge startups and advanced
technologies to help develop the next generation of
athletes, enhance the fan experience and drive continued growth
for the League and its Clubs. 


In this conversation, we talk about what spurred this innovation,
the companies in the initial cohort, and the areas of interest
for potential future cohorts.


Time Stamps


3:00 - Mihir’s Experience Working at Overtime


5:00 - Launching the MLS Innovation Lab


8:00 - Applying Innovation Across the MLS Ecosystem


12:00 - Sourcing Investment Opportunities 


13:00 - The Initial Cohort of MLS Innovation Lab


19:00 - Figuring out the ‘Moat’ and Confronting Competition 


25:00 - Areas of Focus for MLS Innovation Labs’ Future Cohorts


30:00 - TOCA and Opportunities Around Live Experiences


32:00 - Could MLS Create their Own Consumer Products within
Health & Wellness? 


Additional Links


MLS Launches Innovation Lab Startup Accelerator Program


Game On: Experiential Venues Worth a Shot to Engage Fans Outside
the Stadium


Sweaty Equity: Why Sports Leagues are Setting up Investment Funds


Chelsea FC launches new sports nutrition app called Blue Fuel


PRIME Example: Rightsholders could benefit from Dodging industry
incumbents


Connect with Mihir on LinkedIn - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with Andy on LinkedIn - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here