RIVERSPORT Foundation Company Profile

Background

Established in 2004 as the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation, the organization rebranded to the RIVERSPORT Foundation in 2020 to better reflect its expanded mission and offerings. The foundation's mission is to inspire excellence, enhance communities, and change lives through Olympic sports and outdoor urban adventures. It has played a pivotal role in transforming the Oklahoma River into a world-class urban aquatic venue, fostering both competitive and recreational water sports.

Key Strategic Focus

The RIVERSPORT Foundation focuses on:

Developing and Operating Facilities: Managing the Boathouse District, a $100 million development along the Oklahoma River, which includes multiple boathouses, fitness centers, and event spaces.

Promoting Water Sports and Outdoor Recreation: Offering programs in rowing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, dragon boating, sailing, and various adventure sports.

Youth Engagement and Community Outreach: Implementing initiatives like Thrive Outside OKC to engage underserved youth in outdoor activities.

Supporting Olympic and Paralympic Athletes: Serving as a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site, providing training facilities for national team athletes.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the RIVERSPORT Foundation's financials for the fiscal year ending December 2024 are as follows:

Total Revenues: $10,071,689

Total Expenses: $9,795,431

Total Assets: $16,611,224

The foundation receives funding through grants from various organizations, including:

OGE Energy Corp Foundation: $75,000 for general support

Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF): $66,211 for general purpose

These funds are utilized to support facility operations, program development, community outreach, and athlete training.

Pipeline Development

The RIVERSPORT Foundation's development pipeline includes:

RIVERSPORT Rapids: A whitewater rafting and kayaking center in the Boathouse District, offering urban whitewater experiences.

RIVERSPORT Adventures: An outdoor adventure park featuring activities such as zip lining, high-speed slides, and a bike park.

Thrive Outside OKC: A collective impact initiative aimed at engaging underserved youth in outdoor activities, fostering an active outdoor culture in Central Oklahoma.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The RIVERSPORT Foundation distinguishes itself through:

Proprietary Technologies: Development of the world's first dynamic rowing tank and an endless pool for training purposes.

Scientific Methods: Utilization of high-altitude training rooms and advanced fitness equipment to enhance athlete performance.

AI-Driven Capabilities: Integration of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and eSports into training and recreational programs, providing innovative experiences for athletes and visitors.

Leadership Team

The RIVERSPORT Foundation's leadership includes:

Mike Knopp: Executive Director

Professional Background: Former practicing attorney who transitioned to lead the foundation, overseeing its growth and development.

Key Contributions: Instrumental in transforming the Oklahoma River into a premier urban aquatic venue and securing the foundation's status as a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site.

Stephen Ball: Chief Operating Officer

Professional Background: Experienced in nonprofit management and operations, contributing to the foundation's strategic initiatives.

Key Contributions: Oversees daily operations, ensuring efficient management of facilities and programs.

Elizabeth Laurent: Chief Marketing Officer

Professional Background: Expert in marketing and communications, leading the foundation's branding and outreach efforts.

Key Contributions: Developed the RIVERSPORT brand identity, aligning it with the foundation's vision and enhancing community engagement.

Lucas Williams: Director of Operations

Professional Background: Specialist in facility management and event coordination, ensuring smooth operations of the Boathouse District.

Key Contributions: Manages logistics for events and daily activities, maintaining high standards of service and safety.

Morgan Bateman: Sales Director

Professional Background: Background in sales and business development, focusing on revenue generation and partnerships.

Key Contributions: Drives sales strategies, fostering relationships with sponsors and partners to support the foundation's initiatives.

Leadership Changes

In September 2024, the RIVERSPORT Foundation appointed four new members to its board of directors:

Amy Janes

David Huslig

Nova Fleske

Sarah Delaney

These appointments aim to strengthen the foundation's governance and strategic direction.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for urban aquatic and adventure sports facilities is growing, with increasing interest in outdoor recreation and sports tourism. The RIVERSPORT Foundation's unique offerings position it as a leader in this niche market.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

National Whitewater Center (Charlotte, NC): Offers extensive whitewater rafting and kayaking facilities, along with adventure sports.

U.S. National Whitewater Center (Charlotte, NC): Provides a range of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip lining.

The RIVERSPORT Foundation differentiates itself through its urban location, integration of Olympic training facilities, and diverse program offerings.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The foundation has established significant collaborations, including:

U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site: Designated as an official training site, supporting national team athletes.

Thrive Outside OKC Initiative: A collective impact initiative engaging multiple organizations to promote outdoor activities among underserved youth.