APEX Capital - Investor Network Connecting Professional Athletes with Exclusive Opportunities

In this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we present Danny Cortenraede, founder and managing partner of In Studio Ventures.We discuss Danny's journey from the Netherlands to becoming a key player in sports technology investment, the strategies behind InStudio Ventures, and the importance of athlete capital in the investment landscape. Danny shares insights on market opportunities, particularly in youth and women's sports, and highlights the unique advantages of the Los Angeles market for startups. The conversation concludes with a look at the future initiatives of InStudio Ventures and the growing role of athletes in the investment space.Takeaways- Danny's journey began in the Netherlands, working in corporate roles before venturing into entrepreneurship.- He founded InStudio Ventures to help reduce the failure rate of startups in sports technology.- The firm focuses on investing in companies with at least $1 million in annual revenue.- Danny emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships in the investment process.- InStudio Ventures aims to add value beyond just capital, leveraging relationships in the sports ecosystem.- The global sports market is expanding, with significant opportunities in youth and women's sports.- LA is a unique market with numerous sports teams and events, making it a hub for sports technology.- Startups need to commit to the LA market and build local relationships to succeed.- Danny's firm is actively involved in educating athletes about investment opportunities.- The future of sports technology is promising, with a focus on AI and analytics.To learn more, visit: https://www.instudioventures.comGet in touch with Danny Cortenraede at: linkedin.com/in/dcortenraede Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Download the latest Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025: https://sportstechx.com/reports/gster25/ Chapters00:00 Introduction 04:38 Danny Cortenraede's Journey08:53 Investment Strategies at InStudio Ventures13:28 Focus Areas and Market Opportunities17:58 The Role of Athlete Capital in Investments22:09 The Unique Landscape of Los Angeles for Startups26:42 Future Outlook and Upcoming Initiatives

🎙 In lieu of the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Prashant Khanna, We discuss the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting in India. Exploring  the innovative initiatives at Star Labs, including AI-driven features and robotics, and the challenges faced in implementing these technologies. The conversation highlights the growing sports ecosystem in India, the importance of collaboration, and the future of sports technology.Takeaways- Jiostar is a major player in the sports tech market in India.- Star Labs focuses on innovation in sports broadcasting.- AI and robotics are transforming sports coverage.- Collaboration with startups is key to innovation.- The sports ecosystem in India is rapidly evolving.- Innovation often starts at the tier 2 and tier 3 levels.- Jiostar covers over 300 days of live sports annually.- The organization has a strong culture of risk-taking and innovation.- AI translation enhances viewer engagement.- The future of sports technology is promising with ongoing developments.To learn more, visit: https://starlab.startv.com/home.htmlGet in touch with Prashant Khanna at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khannaprashantHosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Download the latest Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025: https://sportstechx.com/reports/gster25/ Chapters00:00 Introduction01:03 Meet Prashant Khanna from JIostar04:06 Exploring Star Labs and Its Innovations07:47 Innovative Technologies in Sports Broadcasting10:49 The Role of Star Labs in Sports Innovation13:58 Challenges in Scaling Innovations19:56 Balancing Innovation and Market Readiness23:29 The Growing Sports Ecosystem in India27:37 Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing in Sports31:21 Future Innovations at Jiostar32:35 Memorable Sporting Moments

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Ricardo Mazzucca, Partner at Arena Hub.In this episode, we discuss the evolution of the Brazilian sports innovation ecosystem. We explore Ricardo's background, the mission of Arena Hub, the startup landscape in Brazil, and the challenges and opportunities within the sports industry. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation, connection, and education in accelerating the future of sports, as well as the role of startups in transforming the industry.Takeaways- Ricardo Mazzucca has extensive experience in sports marketing and innovation.- Arena Hub aims to accelerate innovation in the sports industry.- The Brazilian sports ecosystem is evolving but still has room for growth.- Startups in Brazil are diverse, ranging from early-stage to mature companies.- Innovation is crucial for sports entities to remain competitive.- The partnership with the Brazilian Olympic Committee is a significant milestone for Arena Hub.- Fan engagement is a key focus for Brazilian sports startups.- The sports industry in Brazil is ripe for investment and innovation.- Many sports entities in Brazil are still adapting to the concept of innovation.- Arena Hub connects startups with sports entities to foster collaboration.To learn more, visit: http://www.arenahub.com.br Get in touch with Ricardo Mazzucca at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardomazzucca/ Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction01:28 Ricardo's Background and Arena Hub04:12 Mission and Evolution of Arena Hub10:14 Startups in the Arena Hub Ecosystem20:58 The Brazilian Sports Industry Landscape28:59 Future Plans for Arena Hub31:53 Fav Sporting Moment

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Claudine Breton, Director General at Thinksport.Claudine discusses her background and the revitalization of ThinsSport's mission. She highlights the importance of innovation in the sports ecosystem, the role of startups, and the upcoming event known as 'The Spot'. Claudine shares insights on international collaboration, barriers to innovation within sports organizations, and quick wins for embracing a culture of innovation. The conversation emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach to drive progress in the sports industry.Takeaways- ThinkSport is focusing on innovation and collaboration.- The organization aims to connect various stakeholders in the sports ecosystem.- International partnerships are crucial for sports innovation.- Startups play a vital role in addressing sports challenges.- The Spot event will showcase innovative solutions in sports.- Barriers to innovation include financial constraints and resistance to change.- Sustainability and diversity are key focus areas for sports organizations.- ThinkSport plans to expand its international relationships and initiatives.To learn more, visit: https://thinksport.org/ Get in touch with Claudine Breton at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudine-breton-849457/ Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction05:17 ThinkSport 2.009:23 Global Collaboration and Innovation Challenges12:51 Engaging Startups in Sports Innovation17:48 The Spot: A Hub for Sports Innovation21:07 Overcoming Barriers to Innovation in Sports26:33 Quick Wins for Embracing Innovation29:27 Future Plans for ThinkSport

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Lloyd Danzig, managing partner at Sharp Alpha.In this episode we discuss the evolving landscape of sports technology and investment. We explore the concept of competitive entertainment, the rise of innovative ventures like Pool House, and the importance of engaging fan experiences. Lloyd shares insights on the qualities of successful founders and the future trends in sports tech, emphasizing the shift towards active participation and socialization in sports.Takeaways- Competitive entertainment is about engaging consumers.- Investments in sports tech are expanding beyond traditional boundaries.- Pool House exemplifies the trend of experiential entertainment.- The younger generation seeks socialization beyond alcohol consumption.- Innovative tech can transform traditional games like pool.- Successful founders need to inspire and engage their teams.- Transparency in communication is crucial for founders.- The sports tech landscape is ripe for new investments.- Fan engagement is shifting from passive to active participation.- Future trends will be driven by consumer behavior and technology.To learn more, visit: https://www.sharpalpha.vc/ Get in touch with Llyod Danzig at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloyddanzig/ Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to SportsTech and Investment Trends03:23 Exploring Competitive Entertainment and Investment Strategies06:02 Innovations in Pool House and Eater-tainment09:18 The Rise of Competitive Socialization12:19 Investment Insights and Portfolio Highlights18:11 Qualities of Successful Founders24:00 Future Trends in Sports and Entertainment30:11 Memorable Sporting Moments 

🎙 On this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we’re shining shining light on Women’s Sports again with Ellen Hyslop, Co-Founder of The GIST.In this episode we discuss the evolving landscape of women's sports and media, the importance of catering to female sports fans, the unique storytelling approach needed to engage this audience, and the surge in investment in women's sports. Ellen shares insights on the challenges faced in building a sports media brand, the role of technology in enhancing women's sports visibility, and the future plans for The GIST, including a focus on community building and partnerships with major organizations.Takeaways- The GIST is the first fan-first sports media company for underserved sports fans.- Women care about both men's and women's sports, often more than men do.- Storytelling is crucial for engaging female sports fans.- Digital media has democratized women's sports, allowing athletes to share their stories directly.- Investment in women's sports is surging due to increased visibility and engagement.- The quality of media coverage for women's sports has improved significantly with better technology.- Data analytics can unlock new opportunities in women's sports, especially in fantasy and betting.- The next generation of female athletes is more likely to pursue sports as a career.- Community building is essential for the future of sports media.- Women entering the sports industry should view their unique perspectives as assets. To learn more, visit: www.thegistsports.comGet in touch with Ellen Hyslop at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-hyslop-12829445/Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 The Rise of Women's Sports Media03:11 Understanding the GIST: Audience-First Approach10:35 Storytelling: Engaging the Casual Sports Fan16:48 Investment Surge in Women's Sports20:26 Technology's Role in Women's Sports Growth24:39 Advice for Aspiring Women in Sports26:20 Future Plans for The GIST

🎙 On this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we’re shining shining light on Women’s Sports with Arianna Criscione, Co-Founder and CEO at Valeur Sport.We discuss the evolving landscape of women's sports, focusing on investment opportunities, the importance of salary transparency, and the role of technology in enhancing visibility and engagement. Arianna shares her journey from being a professional athlete to an entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to close the gender pay gap and improve the overall ecosystem for women in sports. The conversation highlights the growing appetite for women's sports and the innovative approaches being taken to foster growth and inclusivity in the industry.Takeaways- Arianna emphasizes the need for salary transparency in sports.- Valeur aims to close the gender pay gap in sports.- Women's sports is becoming a billion-dollar industry.- Visibility of women's sports is improving but still needs work.- Technology can play a crucial role in enhancing women's sports.- Investment in women's sports is increasing, but strategies need to improve.- Arianna's journey showcases the importance of networking and seizing opportunities.- Creating a safe space for discussions about gender issues is vital.- The ecosystem for women's sports needs to be built strategically.- Women's sports are innovating and creating unique engagement opportunities.To learn more, visit: https://valeursport.com/Register for Expert Exchanges at: https://www.eventbrite.fr/e/expert-exchanges-valeur-series-tickets-1230222842639?aff=erelexpmltGet in touch with Arianna Criscione at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianna-criscione/Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/

🎙Closing out the Indian series for the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Unmish Parthasarathi, Founder & Executive Director at Picture Board Partners (Singapore). In this episode of the Sports Tech All Stars Podcast, they discuss the evolution of media rights, the unique characteristics of the Indian sports market, emerging opportunities beyond cricket, and the impact of technology and innovation on sports participation. The conversation also touches on the future of sports in India leading up to the 2036 Olympics, highlighting the potential for growth and development in various sports sectors.Takeaways- Unmish Parthasarathi has extensive experience in the sports industry, working at the intersection of content, technology, and finance.- The media rights landscape has changed significantly, with increased demand and supply fragmentation.- India's sports culture is dominated by cricket, but there are emerging opportunities in other sports.- The IPL has had a profound impact on Indian sports, both positively and negatively.- Technology and innovation are crucial for the future of sports participation in India.- The audience in India is young, connected, and multilingual, presenting unique opportunities.- The economics of sports media are shifting towards streaming and digital platforms.- Fandom in sports is characterized by loyalty and engagement, which differs from other entertainment genres.- The upcoming 2036 Olympics in India presents a significant opportunity for growth in sports.- There is a growing momentum in the Indian sports market, driven by various factors including technology and youth engagement.To learn more, visit: http://www.pictureboard.asiaGet in touch with Unmish Parthasarathi at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/unmish/Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction02:41 Unmish Parthasarathi's Background and Expertise05:27 Evolving Media Rights Landscape08:43 Comparative Analysis of Global Sports Markets11:28 Unique Indian Sports Audience13:55 Emerging Sports and Opportunities in India16:57 Role of Technology and Innovation in Sports19:51 The Future of Indian Sports22:24 Conclusion

🎙Closing out the Indian series  in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Salone Sehgal, Founding General Partner, LumikaiIn this episode of the SportsTech All-Stars podcast, Salone Sehgal, founding general partner of Lumikai, discusses her journey in the Indian sports ecosystem, focusing on the intersection of media, gaming, and technology. She shares insights on the evolution of the Indian gaming market, investment strategies, and the future of esports in India. Salone emphasizes the importance of building relationships with founders and highlights the significant growth potential in the Indian gaming and entertainment sectors.Takeaways- Salone Sehgal is the founding general partner at Lumikai, India's first media gaming and tech stage fund.- Lumikai focuses on investing in interactive media, gaming, and technology, managing over $75 million.- The Indian gaming market has seen a Cambrian explosion due to mobile accessibility and affordable data.- Esports has become an official sport in India, indicating its growing importance in the sports ecosystem.- Salone's investment strategy includes building relationships with founders before they seek funding.- The average Indian consumes a significant amount of data, driving demand for interactive content.- Gaming is now a major revenue generator, surpassing traditional media like Bollywood.- Lumikai's approach includes a five-pillar framework to support portfolio companies.- The future of esports in India looks promising, with increasing youth engagement and cultural relevance.- Salone believes the next decade will see significant changes in the Indian sports and gaming landscape.To learn more, visit: https://www.lumikai.com/Get in touch with Salone Sehgal at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salone-sehgal-b758693Hosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech: https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Exploring the Indian Sports Ecosystem04:37 The Rise of Gaming and Interactive Media09:38 Investment Strategies and Success Stories17:10 Identifying Market Gaps and Future Trends21:45 The Emergence of Esports in India25:52 Looking Ahead: What's Next for Lumikai?

🎙Continuing focus on the Indian ecosystem in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Per Nohlert, CEO of 1080 MotionIn this conversation, Per discusses his journey and vision for the company, focusing on the innovative technology behind their products and the potential of the Indian sports market. He shares insights from his recent trip to India, highlighting the growing interest in sports technology and the willingness to invest in high-quality training equipment. Per also addresses challenges in the market, including price sensitivity and the need for education around their products. Looking ahead, he emphasizes the company's growth strategy and commitment to understanding customer needs in various regions.Takeaways:- Per Nohlert emphasizes the importance of understanding the Indian market.- 1080 Motion's technology disrupts traditional resistance training methods.- The company is focused on expanding into new sports and markets.- Per's recent trip to India revealed a strong interest in sports tech.- There is a growing willingness to invest in high-quality training equipment.- Price sensitivity in India was less of a concern than expected.- 1080 Motion aims to increase local production to reduce costs.- The company is committed to education and customer engagement.- Per highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions with customers.- The future looks promising for 1080 Motion in India and beyond.To learn more, visit:1080motion.comGet in touch with Per Nohlert at:www.linkedin.com/in/per-nohlert/?originalSubdomain=seHosted by ⁠Rohn Malhotra⁠ from ⁠SportsTechX⁠ - Leading source of Data & Insights about SportsTech startups and the surrounding ecosystem.Download the 2024 Global Sports tech VC Report here:sportstechx.com/reports/gstvcr24Sign Up for the Sports Tech Weekly Newsletter for more news, features & insights on Sports Tech:https://newsletter.sportstechx.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to 1080 Motion06:37 Exploring the Indian Market Potential12:39 Price Sensitivity and Market Dynamics in India19:05 Future Plans for 1080 Motion in India and Beyond