In a significant boost for women’s sports, Toronto businessman Larry Tanenbaum and the Detroit-based Ilitch Companies have announced their strategic partnership with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). This collaboration, unveiled on Monday, includes a substantial investment of US$100 million from Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Sports Ventures, marking the first external financial backing for the league since its inception in 2023.
A Commitment to Women’s Sports
Tanenbaum, who serves as the chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, expressed his enthusiasm for the PWHL, stating, “Hockey is in our DNA as Canadians, and that passion brought us to the PWHL as its first Canadian investor. Building world-class women’s sports organisations that inspire the next generation of athletes, fans, and leaders is how you create something that truly lasts.”
This investment aligns with Kilmer’s long-standing commitment to fostering women’s sports, evident in their ownership of the WNBA’s Toronto Tempo, Canada’s first professional women’s basketball team. “We saw that opportunity first with the Tempo and now we’re proud to deepen that commitment through this significant investment in the PWHL,” Tanenbaum added, acknowledging the rapid development and potential of the league.
Expanding the League’s Reach
The PWHL has made remarkable strides since its launch, with foundational support from Mark and Kimbra Walter, who have been instrumental in the league’s growth. Mark Walter, who also chairs the Los Angeles Dodgers and owns stakes in the Los Angeles Lakers and Sparks, has been a key figure in establishing a strong financial foundation for women’s hockey.
The PWHL announced exciting plans for expansion, with new franchises set to debut in cities like Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose, bringing the total to twelve teams for the 2026-27 season. This growth not only enhances the league’s visibility but also creates opportunities for female athletes across North America.
The Role of the Ilitch Companies
Chris Ilitch, CEO of the Ilitch Companies, which owns the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and MLB’s Detroit Tigers, highlighted the importance of investing in women’s hockey. “The PWHL’s rise has been one of the most compelling stories in professional sports, and we are proud to be part of that story. Investing in the PWHL means an opportunity to broaden the game’s reach, connect with new fans, and create pathways for athletes for generations to come,” he stated.
The Ilitch Companies view their involvement as a way to harness the unifying power of hockey to engage communities and inspire future generations of players.
Positive Trends for the PWHL
The PWHL has reported impressive growth metrics, with its sponsorship portfolio expanding by 35% year-on-year. Additionally, merchandise sales have surged by over 50%, and the league’s social media presence has garnered an astounding 682 million impressions. These figures indicate a robust interest in women’s hockey and suggest that the league is on a promising trajectory.
The Toronto Tempo also announced plans for a dedicated performance centre at Exhibition Place, set to open in 2028. This facility will serve as a training hub and a community engagement centre, further solidifying the Tempo’s commitment to grassroots development.
Why it Matters
The investment from Tanenbaum and the Ilitch Companies represents a pivotal moment for women’s hockey, providing not only financial backing but also a platform for growth and visibility. As the PWHL expands and evolves, the commitment from such influential figures underscores a broader movement towards equality in sports. This partnership not only enhances the professional landscape for female athletes but also signals to future generations that women’s sports deserve the same level of investment and recognition as their male counterparts. The impact of this investment is likely to resonate for years, inspiring a new wave of talent and fans in the world of women’s hockey.
