Projects

SportsPro’s projects are bespoke initiatives that utilise our unique influence, international network and market-leading editorial and event platforms to drive tangible value to the business world of sport.

With a focus on purpose, best practice, mentorship and community, these initiatives are intended to connect and inspire sports business professionals, showcasing innovative solutions and expert insight to help accelerate progress across the industry.

Our New Era initiative is a year-round programme and growing community designed to recognise, support and advocate for a new era of gender equality and representation within the international sports industry. We want to bring new ideas, underappreciated thinkers and underrepresented people to the forefront and elevate their profiles; doing so by providing a global platform and ongoing community engagement, powered by a diverse Steering Group of inspirational and accomplished women.

Despite progress being made, there is still a small pool of female voices regularly contributing to the global sports industry conversation. We intend to widen and deepen this from within, helping to empower the women who will shape the future of sport.

Sports marketing has evolved.

From crypto to ecommerce and betting to fintech, disruptive brands have changed the sponsorship game – bringing new technology, fresh ideas, and new ways to connect with fans. Traditional players are levelling up too – because in today’s market, creativity isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Introducing Impact X – a bold new initiative spotlighting the most impactful, creative and effective partnerships in sport. 

From digital content campaigns to tech-led activations that spark real results – this is where creativity meets performance.

Launched in 2021 in collaboration with Laureus, the Laureus Sport for Good Index shines a light on the brands driving meaningful societal impact on the sports industry. The Index recognises and champions those that are making significant contributions across the 17 Sustainable Development Goals as laid out by the United Nations, as well as aligning their business output with their sports investment and activations.

Determined by an independently adjudicated judging process overseen by a panel of industry experts, the purpose of the Index is to share best practice and showcase the organisations that are having the clearest impact and providing compelling evidence for the role that sport can play in driving sustainable change.

First published in 2010, our highly anticipated Most Marketable Athletes ranking considers the dynamic nature of athlete marketability in the digital age, applying an advanced science that goes beyond vanity metrics to measure which sports stars offer the most value to brands today.

In collaboration with NorthStar Solutions Group, our methodology has been developed to provide the most comprehensive assessment of athlete marketability in the sports industry. We have blended extensive data analysis, advanced social media monitoring, economic valuations, and both expert and consumer insights to bring you this annual list of the Most Marketable Athletes in the world. 

The sports industry is beginning to prioritise sustainability but needs fresh talent and bright ideas to contribute to solving the social and ecological issues that face us all. Our Sustainability Hackathon is an opportunity for top university students from across the globe to create innovative solutions that could help the sports industry drive positive social impact, environmental change and financial prosperity.

Mentored by experienced professionals within the industry, students present their ideas to our esteemed judging panel of industry leaders. Challenge-winning teams are then invited to showcase their solutions at our flagship summit, SportsPro Live, in front of a global audience of sports business decision-makers.

UQ x NEW ERA

Back in 2023, as part of our commitment to helping shape the future of the sports industry, SportsPro partnered with the University of Queensland on a groundbreaking research project to understand the factors that contribute to great leadership in the sports ecosystem.

In 2025, the research results are here, highlighting the transformative impact of NEW ERA to date. Based on interviews with the most recent cohort, Steering Group members, and alumni, the report underlines the vital role such programmes play in achieving gender equity and the importance of ongoing investment. Explore the research today to understand your role in shaping the future of our industry.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING

NEXT?

With the range of new and emerging challenges – and the many more we haven’t yet predicted – SportsPro will continue to stay ahead during each evolution of the industry. For those looking to do the same, SportsPro will take you where you need to be.

To discuss your objectives, request a proposal, or find out more about SportsPro, get in touch: