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APEX is a sports-focused investment firm founded in 2020, with offices located in Oeiras, Portugal, and London, United Kingdom. The firm specializes in providing investment opportunities across the sports landscape, targeting both early-stage companies and established properties. APEX has quickly established itself as a key player in the sports investment sector, leveraging its connections with world-class athletes to enhance its investment strategy and support its portfolio companies.
Currently, APEX manages a diverse portfolio of 26 companies and employs a team of 24 professionals, including 7 partners and 6 principals. The firm is actively expanding its operations, recently announcing a €300 million private equity fund aimed at acquiring minority stakes in European sports teams and leagues. This expansion reflects APEX's commitment to tapping into the growing sports market and its potential for high returns.
Notable milestones for APEX include significant investments in innovative sports technology and media companies, as well as strategic partnerships with high-profile athletes. The firm’s athlete-backed limited partner base provides unique access and credibility, enhancing deal flow and support for growth.
APEX invests across various sectors within the sports industry, including sports-tech, media, healthcare, AI, fintech, and consumer. The firm employs a multi-faceted investment strategy that encompasses Venture Capital, Growth, and Private Equity. APEX targets early-stage companies that are innovating in how sports are experienced and consumed, as well as premium and emerging sports assets with high growth potential.
The firm’s check size ranges from $100,000 to $4 million, allowing for flexibility in funding various stages of company development. APEX's investment thesis emphasizes the importance of innovation within the sports ecosystem, focusing on companies that can disrupt traditional models and enhance the overall sports experience. APEX looks for founders who demonstrate a strong vision, industry knowledge, and the ability to execute their business plans effectively.
Geographically, APEX maintains a global focus, with particular attention to North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. This broad geographic scope allows the firm to identify and capitalize on diverse investment opportunities across different markets.
APEX has built a diverse portfolio of 26 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in the sports sector. Notable investments include:
Other portfolio companies include Versus Game, VRTL, and Hexis, which focus on AI-powered nutrition for athletes and performance analytics. While APEX has not yet recorded any unicorns or IPOs, its portfolio features high-profile sports-tech companies with significant growth potential.
António Caçorino - Founder & CEO. He has extensive experience in sports investment and has been instrumental in establishing APEX's strategic direction.
Pedro Félix da Costa - Co-Founder & CCO. He brings a wealth of knowledge in corporate communications and marketing within the sports sector.
Koen Bosma - Head of Venture Capital. Koen has a strong background in venture capital and has led several successful investments in the sports-tech space.
Pedro M. de Sousa - COO. Pedro oversees the firm's operations and ensures efficient management of the investment process.
Francisco Quintal - Investor Relations Manager. He manages relationships with investors and stakeholders, enhancing APEX's visibility in the market.
Jordan Foley - Investor Relations Manager. Jordan supports investor communications and engagement strategies.
Beatriz Machado - Legal & Compliance Manager. Beatriz ensures that APEX adheres to regulatory requirements and manages legal matters.
Eleonore Clavero - Founder Associate. Eleonore supports the founding team in various operational capacities.
Sam Isaacs - Investment Manager. Sam focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Ibrahim Akhtar - Investment Associate. Ibrahim assists in due diligence and portfolio management.
Madalena Mendes - Investment Analyst. Madalena conducts market research and analysis to support investment decisions.
Hugo Sever - Strategy & Value Creation Senior Manager. Hugo works on enhancing the value of portfolio companies through strategic initiatives.
Eduardo Espinar - Strategy & Value Creation Senior Manager. Eduardo collaborates with portfolio companies to drive growth strategies.
Giuseppe Jandoli - Strategy & Value Creation Analyst. Giuseppe supports strategic planning and execution for portfolio companies.
Laura Pedrosa - Senior Executive Assistant. Laura provides administrative support to the executive team.
Luís Caçorino - Athlete Relations. Luís manages relationships with athlete partners and stakeholders.
Aurora Danieli - Marketing, Events & PR. Aurora oversees marketing initiatives and public relations for APEX.
To pitch to APEX, founders should send their proposals via email to vc@apex-cp.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, financial projections, and the team’s background. APEX typically reviews submissions promptly, but response times may vary based on the volume of inquiries. Warm introductions are preferred, especially from industry contacts or existing portfolio companies, to enhance the chances of securing a meeting.
In March 2026, APEX announced the launch of a €300 million private equity fund aimed at acquiring minority stakes in European sports teams and leagues. This fund represents a significant expansion of APEX's investment strategy, moving into private equity while continuing its venture capital activities.
In December 2025, APEX led a $13 million investment round for Scoreplay, an AI media platform, with participation from NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo. This investment highlights APEX's commitment to supporting innovative companies within the sports media sector.
Additionally, APEX facilitated a €4.47 million funding round for Output Sports, which focuses on developing elite sports science technology. This investment underscores APEX's focus on performance analytics and technology in sports.
What are APEX's investment criteria?
APEX focuses on early-stage companies within the sports sector, particularly those innovating in sports experiences and consumption. The firm invests in various sectors, including sports-tech, media, healthcare, AI, fintech, and consumer.
How can I apply or pitch to APEX?
Founders can pitch to APEX by sending an email to vc@apex-cp.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes APEX different from other venture capital firms?
APEX differentiates itself through its athlete-backed limited partner base, which provides unique access and credibility in the sports industry. This connection enhances deal flow and support for portfolio companies.
What is APEX's geographic scope?
APEX has a global investment focus, with particular emphasis on North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. This broad geographic reach allows the firm to identify diverse investment opportunities.
What is APEX's fund size and check size?
APEX's check sizes range from $100,000 to $4 million. The firm is also launching a €300 million private equity fund targeting minority stakes in European sports teams and leagues.
What kind of post-investment involvement does APEX have?
APEX provides strategic access and support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its connections with athletes and industry experts to enhance growth and operational success.
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