As a tech start-up immersed in the sports world, our team at Communiti keeps a close eye on industry trends. Recently, one observation has become crystal clear: As sport organizations at every level, including Provincial and National bodies, you've dedicated decades to building incredible networks of clubs, coaches, athletes, and volunteers. This network is your most valuable asset, and truly capitalizing on that asset should be paramount.

Yet, the financial squeeze many of you face is undeniable. Current pressures mean up to 90% of Sport Organizations rely on federal funding – funding that hasn't kept pace with inflation – to deliver essential programs. The stark reality? Since the last significant funding increase around 2005, their purchasing power has plummeted by an estimated 33%. This leaves many Sport Organizations feeling, quite frankly, overstretched and under-resourced.

Consequently, tough decisions are being made: staff cuts, limited programming, and increased financial burdens on athletes, potentially pushing towards a "pay-to-play" model that nobody wants.

This begs the question: What if there was a better way to leverage the powerful network you've painstakingly built – a way to generate sustainable, ongoing revenue that your organization controls and can reinvest into your sport? We believe there is.

We've observed how, in response to tight budgets and the need for digital tools, many Sport Organizations partner with tech providers offering seemingly low-cost or even "free" solutions. But there's often a hidden trade-off: access to your network. This network, with clubs and coaches processing thousands of registrations annually, represents a massive, largely untapped revenue stream for you. It's your organization's hidden jewel, especially when traditional revenue growth is challenging.

While these tech partnerships provide necessary digital tools, the common model often looks like this: a modest sponsorship fee, perhaps, and maybe a software discount for your member clubs. It can seem like a good deal. But taking a closer look, we see these tech companies frequently leverage your hard-earned network to build their own registration fortunes. They then profit from every single booking made through those platforms – revenue generated directly from your community – while your organization sees little to none of it. 

To put a number on this, consider a conservative example: a Sport Organization with 200 member clubs, where each club processes around 250 registrations annually (totaling 50,000 registrations). If the tech provider averages $10 in revenue per booking, that tech company is generating $500,000 annually from your network. Essentially, your most valuable asset is helping someone else build their business.

Does that sit right with you? We don't think it should. It's time for a change.

It’s time to consider a custom-branded marketplace owned by your organization. Imagine a platform like Ontario Volleyball Connect – it proudly carries the Ontario Volleyball Association brand, serves their community directly, and strengthens their entire ecosystem. Communiti is the engine powering it, but the Sport Organization owns the experience and the opportunity.

Why is this a better model for Sport Organizations?

1. New Revenue Stream: Instead of all booking revenue going elsewhere, you share significantly in it. We recognize the value your network brings, and our partnerships reflect that – we put our money where our mouth is.

2. Brand Ownership: It's your marketplace, reinforcing your brand and deepening your connection with members.

3. New Sponsorship Opportunities: Your branded marketplace, attracting thousands of engaged users, becomes prime digital real estate – a new, valuable asset for current or potential sponsors.

4. Enhanced Member Value:

   • For Users (Athletes, Parents): A seamless experience to discover and book programs in under 30 seconds.

   • For Clubs & Coaches: Free marketing exposure to your NSO's entire network, plus tools for registrations, payments, and communication. Learn more at Communiti for Clubs.
     
     

So, what’s in it for you? Significant new revenue.

While actual figures depend on registration volume and average fees, your organization could share in 10% to 50% of the revenue generated. Based on our conservative example, which showed a potential $500,000 in annual marketplace revenue being generated from your network's activity:

Communiti is open to negotiating significant revenue shares based on the partnership value we build together.

This isn't just hypothetical; it's substantial, recurring revenue to fund core operations, reduce reliance on unpredictable external funding, support vital initiatives like safe sport, invest in athlete development, and even help lower participation costs.

Stop Leaving Money on the Table

The traditional tech partnership model often undervalues your network and diverts crucial revenue away from your sport. It’s time to take control of your digital ecosystem and unlock the true financial potential within your community.

Want to see what this could mean specifically for your organization? Let’s calculate the potential. Book a brief introductory call directly in my calendar here to discuss how a true partnership with Communiti can transform your financial outlook and build a more sustainable future for your sport.

Shashank BK
Co-Founder & CEO
Communiti