Matt Altman

Matt Altman started his career in professional sports shortly after graduating from the University of Arizona in 1993, working in merchandising for the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks.

“In order to grow and evolve we have to take risks. I think the key is to be calculated in the risks you take and ensure they are aligned with the vision. I think understanding that failure is part of the equation of success, thus having the humility to learn from mistakes as a means to growing is important,” Altman said.

“Driven by my relentless nature and determination to succeed, I embraced the risk,” Altman said. “This step was crucial in my journey because it allowed me to capitalize on my innate drive for self-improvement and granted me an early head start in pursuing my entrepreneurial aspirations.”

In 2005, together with his business partner Jason Franklin, Altman identified a niche in the market and founded Sportiqe to provide better lifestyle apparel in the retail market. The company's offerings resonated with customers who were fans of various brands and teams but couldn't find apparel that aligned with their preferences. Sportiqe quickly gained recognition, and it has secured partnerships with several notable clients, including the NBA, the Dave Matthews Band, Nintendo, Trek, the Grand Ole Opry, Zildjian, Warners Bros., Sam Adams, Snowbird and the Wynn.

In 2018, under Altman's leadership, Sportiqe launched its direct-to-consumer business. This strategic move fueled Sportiqe's revenue growth, which surged 300%. With an average growth rate of 95% over the past two years, Sportiqe is poised for further expansion and evolution. The company is in the process of becoming B Corp certified, highlighting its commitment to social impact and sustainability.

Altman also plans to double the company's staff over the next five years, expand its global footprint and pursue new licensing deals in professional sports and entertainment.

Altman is a board member of The Prem Rawat Foundation, a nongovernmental organization supporting initiatives related to food, water and peace. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Altman launched the "Together We Win" campaign, donating profits to first responders.

Altman has completed executive education programs at the Harvard Business School, London Business School and Wharton Business School. Sportiqe was given the Arizona Corporate Excellence Award by the Phoenix Business Journal in 2019 and 2021.

Altman was a TEDxTempe featured speaker, and he has appeared on numerous podcasts, including The Social Acre, Conscious Capitalism, Culture Crush, Built on Purpose, Arizona Entrepreneurs Podcast, Tycoons of Small Business, Big Questions w/ Cal Fussman, Built on Purpose, Phoenix Business RadioX and Scaling Up.