As the FIFA World Cup kicks off, this special Thursday Gathering explores one of the defining forces reshaping global sport: the rapid influx of international investment and venture capital into clubs, leagues, technologies and talent pipelines — and what that means for cities and regional innovation ecosystems like Manchester. From sovereign wealth and private equity to sports-tech startups and data-driven performance platforms, we’ll examine how sport is becoming a major innovation and investment frontier. Expect insights from investors, founders, institutions and ecosystem leaders, alongside discussion on how regions can capture long-term value from this global shift in capital, influence and opportunity.

 Powered by Advanced Research + Invention Agency