TLDR:
- NFL star Kayvon Thibodeaux has joined The Collectiv, a $20M VC fund focused on early-stage sports tech companies.
- Thibodeaux is looking to expand his investment portfolio and gain expertise in venture capital while playing in the NFL.
NFL star Kayvon Thibodeaux has joined The Collectiv, a community-powered venture capital fund that aims to raise $20 million in the next six months. Thibodeaux, who plays for the New York Giants, sees this partnership as an opportunity to align with diverse personnel and expand his investment portfolio. At just 23 years old, Thibodeaux is already thinking about his post-NFL career and wants to build his private investment expertise.
Thibodeaux’s involvement in The Collectiv goes beyond recruiting other athletes and raising fund awareness. He will also play a key role in identifying investment opportunities and providing strategic advice based on his insights into the evolving sports industry. Despite his on-field demands during the NFL season, Thibodeaux plans to review potential investments and attend meetings in the offseason. He also aims to leverage the advice of past Giants stars like Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora in achieving his business goals.
The Collectiv aims to democratize access to deal flow for industry leaders and stakeholders, standing out with its diverse investor base that includes C-Suite leaders from major sports leagues and tech companies. The fund has already made initial investments in sports tech startups like U.S. Sail GP, Videon, nVenue, and ON, with a focus on artificial intelligence, fan engagement, stadium operations, and sports betting.
Overall, The Collectiv and Thibodeaux’s involvement represent a unique opportunity for athletes, coaches, trainers, analysts, and executives to venture into entrepreneurship and gain valuable experience in the venture capital ecosystem.
