Canada’s Women’s Sport Boom and the Case for Accelerated Action
Originally posted on TSN
By Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, CEO, Canadian Women & Sport
This International Women’s Day, Canada stands at a tipping point of a golden era for women’s sport. The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is in the midst of its second season, setting new attendance records and building loyal fan bases across the country. In six short weeks, the Northern Super League will make its debut at BC Place in Vancouver. And on the heels of announcing its general manager and Serena Williams taking an ownership stake in the team, anticipation is high for the Toronto Tempo’s tip-off in Canada next year.
Record-breaking crowds, a growing list of investors, and the creation of hundreds of new careers here in Canada are proof that pro women’s sport is on the rise.
Whether it’s a brand looking for ways to connect with Canadians, an investor looking for a compelling opportunity, a community leader or parent concerned about the next generation, or a fan who cares about exciting on-field action and great sport stories, this is good news.
Why? Research shows that professional women’s sport is ripe for investment. It offers a unique and strong value proposition for investors in Canada, particularly those with a venture capital mindset. Not only that, but investing in women’s sport drives economic growth and strengthens communities. It inspires the next generation of athletes and fans, creating a cycle of impact that improves opportunities and outcomes for girls and women of all ages. With 17 million fans of women’s sport in Canada who are asking for more opportunities to engage, the time to invest is now.