Introduction to The Sports Bra

Founded in April 2022 by entrepreneur Jenny Nguyen in Portland, Oregon, The Sports Bra is recognized as the first sports bar in the United States dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. The establishment was created to celebrate athletes and create a welcoming space for women and girls in the sports community.

Expansion Plans

The Sports Bra is set to broaden its reach with new locations opening in Boston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, and St. Louis. These new franchises will complement the original Portland location, collectively known as the “Starting Five.”

“Together, we’re serving fans nationwide who are hungry for spaces that not only champion women’s sports but create a community where everyone feels like they belong. There is no better moment than this to open these places,” said Nguyen.

Emerging Competition

Since the inception of The Sports Bra, several other women-focused sports bars have launched across the U.S. These include:

• The 99ers Sports Bar in Denver
• Rough & Tumble in Seattle
• Title 9 Sports Grill in Phoenix

Investment and Franchising

In 2024, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian’s 776 Foundation made an investment in The Sports Bra, aiming to facilitate its expansion through franchising. As of October 2024, potential investors are invited to apply for franchise opportunities. Each new location will be locally owned, focusing on women-owned food and beverage products.

Menu Highlights

The Sports Bra’s menu features signature items such as:

• “Bra-L-T” sandwich priced at $17
• Green goddess salad for $14
• Signature cocktails, including:
• Title IX (bourbon, peach liqueur, and mint)
• Cherry Picker (gin, cherry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white)
• Pickle Ball (dry gin, dry vermouth, and pickle juice)

Financial Outlook

Reportedly, the franchise fee for opening a new Sports Bra location is $55,000, with total startup costs potentially reaching up to $834,000, which includes training, leases, and insurance. Following the launch, franchises will be required to contribute 8 percent of their gross revenue annually.

The Portland location has achieved significant financial success, grossing an average of $1.086 million over the past two years, primarily through food and beverage sales.