Monarch Collective becomes strategic investor in FC Viktoria Berlin Women – first international growth investment in German women's football.
FC Viktoria Berlin Women has secured an international growth partner in Monarch Collective, marking a historic milestone: this is the first time a global investor has invested in a club in the German Women's Bundesliga.
The first investment platform exclusively focused on women’s sports, Monarch Collective was founded in 2023 by Kara Nortman (co-founder of Angel City FC) and Jasmine Robinson (who played a key role at the San Francisco 49ers during their relocation to Levi's Stadium). Monarch’s mission is to build leading women’s sports institutions that inspire and unite, powered by communities that feel representative of this time in history. The $250 million fund already has stakes in three NWSL teams, Angel City FC (Los Angeles), San Diego Wave FC (San Diego), and Boston Legacy FC (Boston, debuting in 2026).
Monarch’s partnership with FC Viktoria Berlin is its first in Europe—and its fourth overall—and the collaboration starts immediately.
Strategic milestone for German women's football
For FC Viktoria Berlin, the strategic partnership marks another important milestone. Since 2022, the Berlin-based sports start-up has been actively promoting the development of women's football in Germany – as a catalyst for greater visibility, opportunities, and professional structures. The entry of Monarch Collective also opens up access to further partnerships, valuable expertise, and a strong international network.
Context: Why now?
International involvement in women's sports is growing rapidly. It creates visibility, professionalism, and economic stability—while also raising awareness of social responsibility. FC Viktoria Berlin is responding to this development with sustainable planning, diversified sources of revenue, and a proactive stance.
The announcement comes during a landmark week: on November 7, the DFB Bundestag will decide on the spin-off of the women's Bundesliga – a step that will further strengthen the professionalization and economic viability of women's football in Germany. The DFB has already announced that it will invest around 100 million euros in the new women's soccer league.
Verena Pausder (Co-Founder FC Viktoria Berlin Women): “With this partnership, we are taking the next significant step toward elevating women's football to a new level—toward more independence, expertise, reach, and stability in women's football. We want to show that top-level football and social impact go hand in hand. Monarch Collective brings exactly the mindset and experience that will strengthen and accelerate us on this journey.”
Kara Nortman (Co-Founder Monarch Collective): “FC Viktoria Berlin brings a bold entrepreneurial spirit and a pioneering approach that matches Monarch’s vision for meaningful change in women’s sport. In Berlin, a dynamic city at the heart of Europe, and within Germany’s thriving football ecosystem, we see the perfect setting to grow a new model of women’s football that champions both community and professionalism.”
Jasmine Robinson (Co-Founder Monarch Collective:): “We’ve been energized by the passion and execution of the FC Viktoria Berlin co-founders in bringing the brand and community to life.”
Values, governance, and 50+1
Monarch Collective gradually acquires up to 38 percent. The collaboration is based on shared values and follows clear guidelines: 50+1 remains the basis of the agreement, which was negotiated with the support of lawyers from Lupp und Partner, and ensures democratic co-determination. The existing network of investors and the founding team remain on board. Transparent governance structures and a charter of values ensure sustainable growth and integrity.
Ulrich Brüggemann (President of FC Viktoria 1889 Berlin e.V.): “The entry of Monarch Collective marks a historic moment – not only for our women’s team at FC Viktoria Berlin, but for the entire landscape of women’s football in Germany. It proves that investment and integrity are not mutually exclusive, but together can form the foundation for a new era in women’s sports.”
Monarch Collective: Investing to Drive Change
Monarch is backed by Pivotal Ventures – a Melinda French Gates company, women’s sports trailblazers Billie Jean King and Ilana Kloss, Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Caleb Williams, and former Hello Sunshine CEO Sarah Harden, among others. Together, they represent a bold commitment to equity, innovation, and the future of women’s sports.
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