The Summit That’s Changing the Sports Tech Game
By Bradi Van Noy Owens
When Aaron Knape, founder of Rivalry Tech and alum of Comcast SportsTech’s 2023 class, grew tired of hearing conflicting signals from investors and sports leagues, he didn’t just build a better pitch—he built an entirely new platform.
“The leagues loved our tech, but wanted proof we had the capital to support them. Investors liked our vision, but wanted proof we had paying clients,” Aaron explained. “It felt like a never-ending chicken-and-egg loop.” That loop ultimately led to a bold idea: what if the system could be redesigned altogether?
Enter the ACTIV Sports Summit.
What started as a conversation between colleagues quickly evolved into a high-caliber convening of elite venture funds, early-stage sports tech startups, and professional leagues. But this wasn’t just another industry conference. ACTIV Sports Summit was created to solve a real problem—how to bridge the gap between innovation and investment through intentional, curated connection.
From Vision to Validation.
The idea didn’t happen in a vacuum. Aaron’s co-founder, Chris Buckner, had already been working on a large-scale sports tech event in Houston. As the two joined forces, their shared vision evolved into what became ACTIV Sports Summit. That pivot proved to be a winning move: the inaugural summit sold out, validating that the market was more than ready for an event built to truly connect startups, investors, and leagues in meaningful ways. “We didn’t want 5,000 people. We wanted 400 of the right people,” Aaron emphasized. “Investors hungry for deal flow. Founders with real traction. Leagues ready to pilot. And we put them in the same room—on purpose.”
Held in Frisco—aka Sports City USA—ACTIV drew over 125 venture funds, family offices, angels, and strategic partners in its first year. Knape and his team purposefully designed the event around three pillars: the Audience (fan engagement), the Arena (venue tech), and the Athlete (health and human performance). While AI dominated most other event lineups this year, ACTIV deliberately focused on areas where startups could shine beyond the buzzwords.
“We zoomed out from the AI hype to highlight real innovations—like human performance tech that can be used by both athletes and everyday workers,” he noted.
Aaron also drew on his own fundraising journey to shape the Summit’s DNA.
“I’ve been in that seat. I know how valuable it is to cut through the noise and get face time with the right people.”
That’s why startups weren’t tucked away in side rooms—they were center stage at the entrances to every major space.
And the energy was palpable. “I had that nightmare the night before that no one would show up,” he laughed. “But I walked into a packed hallway—and it hit me. This is working.”
Aaron’s biggest takeaway? Founders need to prioritize building and cultivating their networks. “Know who you’re talking to. Do your homework. If someone invests in human performance, don’t pitch food and beverage unless you’ve made the connection clear,” he advised. “You might only get one ‘yes’ out of 100 pitches—but we’re making sure the right 100 are in the room.”
Looking Ahead
“We’re already selling tickets for next year,” Aaron shared, “and that tells us we’re onto something that’s both needed and working.” The team may explore hosting multiple intimate events throughout the year across different cities, staying true to their matchmaking mission without losing the magic of curated connection.
Asked who’s on his dream list for next year?
“Kevin Durant. Mark Cuban. And, you know… Jesus,” Aaron said, grinning.
And his favorite quote from this year’s summit came from former NFL running back Justin Forsett:
“People who are too big to serve are too little to lead.”
It’s a mantra that feels right at home at ACTIV—a place where service, connection, and intentionality are reshaping the future of sports tech.
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