HUNTER HILLENMEYER

Hunter Hillenmeyer is a distinguished Partner at Next Play Capital, a venture capital firm he co-founded alongside fellow former NFL player Ryan Nece. At Next Play Capital, Hunter plays a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of innovative technology companies. His unique journey from the demanding world of professional sports to the dynamic landscape of venture capital provides him with an unparalleled perspective on leadership, resilience, and strategic growth.

Before co-founding Next Play Capital, Hillenmeyer carved out a successful career in the National Football League, primarily as a linebacker for the Tennessee Titans. This experience instilled in him invaluable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and performance under pressure, qualities he now applies to evaluating entrepreneurial talent and market opportunities. Following his NFL career, Hunter pursued an MBA from Stanford University's Graduate School of Business, further sharpening his analytical skills and deepening his understanding of finance and technology. This powerful combination of athletic achievement and rigorous academic training makes him a formidable presence in the venture capital ecosystem.

At Next Play Capital, Hunter Hillenmeyer's investment focus is broad yet strategic, primarily targeting early-stage technology companies. He is particularly interested in sectors such as sports technology, consumer applications, the future of work, Software as a Service (SaaS), and financial technology (fintech). Hunter leverages Next Play Capital's extensive network, which includes a diverse group of professional athletes and business leaders, to provide portfolio companies with not just capital, but also strategic guidance, mentorship, and unparalleled access to market insights. He is deeply committed to backing founders who demonstrate strong vision, execution capabilities, and a clear path to disrupting their respective industries.

Hunter's involvement extends beyond capital deployment; he actively works with founders to navigate the challenges of scaling a startup, drawing on his own experiences in high-stakes environments. While specific individual investments are often attributed to the firm, Hunter has been instrumental in shaping Next Play Capital's portfolio, which includes a range of promising companies poised for significant impact. His ability to connect with founders, understand complex market dynamics, and identify disruptive potential makes him a highly sought-after investor and advisor in the early-stage tech community. His career trajectory exemplifies a successful transition from athletic excellence to business leadership, making him a compelling figure in venture capital.