NEW YORK AND TORONTO – The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) announced that Kilmer Sports Ventures and Ilitch Companies, parent of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, have become strategic partners, marking the league’s first external investors since its 2023 inception. Initial funding was provided by Mark and Kimbra Walter, and the new capital brings two seasoned sports‑ownership groups with deep ties to key PWHL markets.
In its third season, the league attracted more than 1.1 million fans during the regular season, surpassed 2 million total attendees, and set a new attendance benchmark for professional women’s hockey. Ahead of the 2026‑27 season, the PWHL will add four teams—Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose. Sponsorship revenue has risen 35 % year‑over‑year, e‑commerce merchandise sales have grown over 50 %, and the league has generated more than 682 million social‑media impressions, underscoring its rapid ascent.
“Kimbra and I are incredibly proud of what the PWHL has accomplished in a short time and are excited about what it can achieve moving forward,” said Mark Walter, Chairman and CEO of TWG Global. “We’re thrilled to welcome Kilmer Sports Ventures and Ilitch Companies as partners. Their experience in professional hockey and commitment to women’s sports align perfectly with our long‑term vision.”
Kilmer Sports Ventures, the PWHL’s first Canadian investor, is led by Larry Tanenbaum, O.C., Chairman Emeritus of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. Tanenbaum’s portfolio includes the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and Toronto Argonauts, as well as recent investments such as Canada’s first WNBA franchise, the Tempo, and French soccer club AS Saint‑Étienne.
“Hockey is in our DNA as Canadians, and that passion brought us to the PWHL as its first Canadian investor,” said Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures. “Building world‑class women’s sports organizations that inspire the next generation is how you create something that truly lasts. We’re honored to deepen our commitment through this investment.”
Ilitch Companies, led by CEO Chris Ilitch, owns the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and operates Little Caesars Arena. The firm has been instrumental in revitalizing downtown Detroit through its sports and entertainment holdings.
“The PWHL’s rise is one of the most compelling stories in professional sports, and we are proud to be part of that story,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies. “Investing in the PWHL expands the game’s reach, connects with new fans, and creates pathways for athletes for generations to come.”
Mark and Kimbra Walter, together with the PWHL Advisory Board, will continue to oversee league operations and strategic direction, benefiting from the expertise and networks of these respected ownership groups.
About The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL)
The PWHL is a North American professional ice‑hockey league featuring the world’s top women players. As of the 2025‑26 season, it includes eight teams—Boston, Minnesota, Montréal, New York, Ottawa, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver—with Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose joining for 2026‑27. Since its launch on January 1, 2024, the league has broken multiple attendance records and holds the worldwide all‑time record for a women’s hockey game. Recognized by Sports Business Journal as Sports Breakthrough of the Year, the PWHL was ranked No. 1 in Canada for corporate reputation in 2024 and 2025 by the Harris Poll. Visit thepwhl.com for tickets, merchandise, and the latest updates.