5 Super Bowl Players Making Moves Beyond the Field.
As Sunday's football matchup between Kansas City and San Francisco promises excitement, the same cannot be said for their venture capital scenes.
San Francisco has long been a leading venture market, establishing itself as a key player in the industry's landscape. In contrast, Kansas City's venture capital presence is overshadowed by its reputation for excellent barbecue rather than investment opportunities.
Nevertheless, amidst the Super Bowl showdown, players from both teams are also eyeing touchdowns in the world of venture and investing.
Let's delve into the roster and uncover which players on each team are poised to make waves in the venture capital arena.
Patrick Mahomes
The electrifying quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs and former NFL MVP, is not only a maestro on the football field but also a notable figure in the world of business. Among Mahomes' ventures is his collaboration with Alpine, a prominent F1 Racing Team; BioSteel, a leading sports drink brand trusted by athletes worldwide. Buzzer, a live sports app revolutionizing the fan experience with real-time highlights and updates. Recognizing the importance of recovery and injury prevention, Mahomes has partnered with Hyperice.
He has several sports teams ownership: Kansas City Current (NWSL team); Kansas City Royals (MLB baseball team); MLP (pickleball team); Sporting KC (women’s football team).
On the culinary front, Mahomes satisfies fans' cravings with his partnership with Whataburger, a renowned burger restaurant chain. Lastly, Mahomes embraces the latest advancements in fitness and performance with Whoop, a wearable tech company.
Travis Kelce
The dynamic tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, is not just a force to be reckoned with on the football field. He is the founder of Hilo Nutrition, a nutrition company that offers energy, recovery, and muscle-building benefits by eating a delicious and easy-to-digest gummy; Kelce's Krunch, partnering with Hy-Vee and the 87 & Running foundation for his limited addition cereal; Tru Kolors, Kelce’s clothing and apparel company; and New Heights Show, next-level access to life in the NFL with Jason Kelce (his brother).
Other ventures include his partnership with Alpine, like Mahomes. Additionally, Kelce has put his stamp on the beverage industry with Casa Azul Tequila Soda, offering a refreshing and flavorful option for tequila enthusiasts.
Fans of spicy cuisine will appreciate Kelce's association with Cholula Hot Sauce, a beloved condiment known for its signature flavor and versatility in enhancing dishes. Moreover, Kelce has ventured into the fitness realm with Hydrow, a leading provider of innovative rowing machines.
Kelce's sense of style is evident through his collaboration with INDOCHINO, a brand specializing in men's custom suits. Kelce has partnered with Kodiak Cakes, offering high-protein pancakes and waffles. Kelce has also delved into media ownership with PlayersTV.
George Kittle
Kelce is also involved in an investment alongside San Francisco 49ers' standout tight end, George Kittle. Both players have invested in RealTruck.com, a startup based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializing in aftermarket truck parts and accessories. Notably, other investors in this venture include Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and NBA player C.J. McCollum, among others.
Instead of starting a new foundation, George and his wife Claire have funded the Hidden Pearls Podcast to uplift and share their resources. They believe in community, vulnerability, prioritizing mental health and providing resources for people to feel more at home in their bodies.
Chase Young
Young joined forces with fellow pro athletes Aaron Judge and Brooks Koepka to invest $29 million in Accelerator Active Energy, a startup based in Southern California specializing in energy drinks.
Deebo Samuel
The wide receiver hailing from South Carolina, joined the venture round of Cheribundi, a producer of natural cherry juice, in 2022. Notably, Samuel was accompanied by prominent athletes such as NBA player Tyrese Haliburton, WNBA player Michaela Onyenwere, and women's football player Lindsey Horan in this investment endeavor.
Aside from the mentioned players, 49ers owner and CEO Jed York operates his family office firm, Aurum Partners. The firm sought to raise $50 million for its inaugural VC fund, as per a regulatory filing from last year. York has a track record of investment through Aurum Partners over the years, with notable deals including early investment in shoemaker Allbirds.