EQUITY OVER ENDORSEMENTS: HOW TO BACK INFLUENCE-DRIVEN VENTURES

June Sarpong chairs a discussion on equity over endorsements, exploring how high-profile talent invests in businesses. Juan Delgado explains FootballCo's reach as the largest digital football publisher. Mark Lothenberg details how Dorsia connects people to exclusive experiences via a member-based platform. Isaiah Kasivensky discusses WillVentures' focus on sports, media, and entertainment, emphasizing the importance of athlete operators. Ibrahim Sagna describes Silverbacks Holding's mission to enable African and Middle Eastern businesses to expand globally. The panel debates the value of celebrity endorsements versus entrepreneurial investment. Mark argues that entrepreneurs are the new celebrities, while Isaiah highlights the distribution advantage influencers provide. Ibrahim emphasizes quality and authenticity for global adoption. The speakers discuss ongoing projects, including the upcoming World Cup and ventures in hospitality, longevity, basketball, golf, and African fighting championships.