Elevate Expands Global Reach with Acquisition of RISE Group

Elevate Sports Ventures has announced the acquisition of RISE Group, a commercial services consultancy in the Middle East. This deal is subject to customary regulatory approval.

The acquisition extends Elevate’s operations into Riyadh, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, joining an established footprint across North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Since its inception in 2014, RISE has worked with clients including Qiddiya, Savvy Games Group, NEOM, Saudi Pro League, Saudi Tourism Authority, Dubai Sports Council and the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi.

“This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Elevate as we expand into one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing sports markets,” said Elevate Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Al Guido. “RISE has built an incredible reputation for driving commercial success and delivering impactful brand activation campaigns across the Middle East, and we look forward to combining our global expertise with their deep regional insights to create even greater value for our clients.”

RISE co-founders Seth Holmes and Tom Berrington will take on key leadership roles within Elevate, which will also welcome 60 RISE team members and maintain offices in Riyadh and Dubai.

“Joining forces with Elevate is a pivotal moment that will propel RISE onto the global stage,” said Berrington. “We are particularly excited by the significant opportunities to scale our operations and contribute to the ambitious mega projects underway in the MENA region’s sport, culture, and entertainment industries. The synergy between our organizations makes this a powerful and strategic alignment.”

As its first major project under Elevate, RISE will support the San Francisco 49ers as its agency of record globally, including in the United Arab Emirates as part of the NFL’s Global Market Program.

“RISE and Elevate are a natural and strategic fit, creating a powerful alliance capable of delivering immense value to brands, rights holders, talent and IP owners globally,” Holmes said. “Together, we recognize the immense potential in the MENA region and are confident that our combined strengths position us to positively support the growth of sport, culture, and entertainment in the build-up to the 2034 FIFA World Cup and beyond.”