Archive · 9 Jan 2026
Investors Revive Interest in Offline Sports Startups
Investors are becoming more interested in offline sports startups again.
In 2025, these startups raised $14.7 million, which is more than the $8 million they raised in 2024.
This interest is because more people, especially parents, are seeing sports as more than just a hobby.
They see it as a way to make money or as part of a healthy lifestyle.
This has led to more startups offering sports academies, training, and even special equipment.
Some startups, like Sports for Life and Michezo Sports, have raised significant amounts of money and are growing quickly.
Investors are confident because these startups are showing good retention rates and stable business models.
Investor interest in offline sports startups revived in 2025 with $14.7 million in funding, up from $8 million in 2024.
The sector is growing due to increased participation in organized sports and maturing business models.
Startups are expanding across B2C and B2B segments, offering academies, infrastructure, and technology like wearables.
Sports for Life raised Rs 21.57 crore in a Series A round, showing a threefold increase in revenue.
Michezo Sports raised $2.5 million and is growing at over 50% year-on-year, supported by repeat demand.
- Who
- Investors and sports startups
- What
- Revival of interest in offline sports startups
- When
- 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- Rising participation in organized sports and maturing business models
- Funding in 2024
- $8 million
- Funding in 2025
- $14.7 million
- Peak Funding in 2023
- $73.9 million
- Number of Sports Startups
- Over 1,700
- Retention Rates in Tier-2 Cities
- 60–70%
- Michezo Sports Growth Rate
- Over 50% year-on-year