**
In a significant boost for women’s sports, Toronto businessman Larry Tanenbaum and his Kilmer Sports Ventures, in collaboration with Detroit’s Ilitch Companies, have officially joined forces with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) as strategic partners. The announcement made on Monday revealed a hefty investment of US$100 million from Kilmer aimed at elevating the status of women’s hockey. This marks a pivotal moment as they become the first external investors in the league since its inception in 2023.
The Investment and Its Implications
Tanenbaum, who serves as chairman of Kilmer, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, 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 is anticipated to play a crucial role in the league’s development and sustainability as it seeks to establish a robust presence in the sports landscape.
The PWHL was initially backed by Mark and Kimbra Walter through the Mark Walter Group, which has provided foundational support since the league’s launch. Mark Walter, notable for his ownership of the MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers and the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, has been a pivotal figure in enhancing the visibility and viability of women’s sports.
A Commitment to Women’s Sports
Larry Tanenbaum’s commitment to advancing women’s sports is further underscored by his ownership of the WNBA’s Toronto Tempo. He noted, “We saw that opportunity first with the Tempo, Canada’s first WNBA team, and now we’re proud to deepen that commitment through this significant investment in the PWHL. What Mark Walter and PWHL senior leadership have built so quickly is incredible, and we’re honoured to be part of this league and everything it stands for.”
This investment comes at a time when the PWHL is expanding, having recently announced new franchises in Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose, which will increase its total to 12 teams by the 2026-27 season. Tanenbaum’s involvement is expected to further galvanise support for women’s hockey across Canada and beyond.
Building for the Future
In addition to the investment, the Toronto Tempo is set to establish a dedicated performance centre at Exhibition Place, scheduled to open in 2028. This facility will not only serve as a training hub for the Tempo but also act as a community resource, fostering grassroots engagement and development programmes.
Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies, echoed the sentiment of progress, stating, “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.”
The PWHL’s growth has been noteworthy, with a 35 per cent year-over-year increase in its sponsorship portfolio, a more than 50 per cent surge in e-commerce merchandise sales, and over 682 million impressions on social media platforms, indicating a burgeoning interest and engagement in women’s hockey.
Why it Matters
The collaboration between Kilmer Sports Ventures and Ilitch Companies with the PWHL signifies a pivotal moment for women’s sports, particularly in hockey—a sport deeply ingrained in Canadian culture. This investment not only provides crucial financial backing but also sends a powerful message about the importance of creating opportunities for female athletes. As the PWHL continues to grow and expand its reach, the involvement of established investors like Tanenbaum and Walter could inspire further investment in women’s sports, ensuring that future generations of female athletes have the resources and platforms they need to excel. The rise of the PWHL could very well redefine the landscape of women’s sports in North America, setting a precedent for inclusivity and equality in athletics.
