Questions & answers.
Everything you need to know about Arena membership.
What is Arena?
Arena is the only private network for leaders across sports, media, and entertainment with weekly curated introductions along with invites to industry events and access to exclusive resources to connect to opportunities across the industry.
Who is Arena for?
Arena is for leaders working across sports, media, and entertainment. Members fall into four categories: Industry Leaders (manager-level or above, currently working in-house for an established sports, media, or entertainment organization), Brands (leaders from established brands that actively partner or activate in the industry), Athletes (current or former professional athletes actively building, investing, or creating in the space), and Consultants, Freelancers, Founders & Agencies (limited acceptance for those with established industry careers or active work with leading enterprises). All members must be currently living and working in the U.S. or Canada. View full membership criteria →
Is Arena like LinkedIn, Slack, or industry groups?
No. Arena isn't a feed, a directory, or a generic community. There's no content to scroll or chat to monitor. It's a curated network built around intentional introductions, industry moments, and relationships that compound over time — not surface-level visibility.
I've tried other industry networks. Why would Arena be different?
Most industry networks only offer curated networks or hosted events. Arena has those too, but what makes Arena significantly different is what happens every single week, regardless of whether there's an event on the calendar. Three curated introductions, matched to your experience, goals, and where you operate — delivered every Monday, all year. Not a room you show up to and hope the right person is there. This is a consistent engine that puts relevant people in front of you, on a schedule you can count on. Arena is the only network in the sports, media & entertainment industry that guarantees curated introductions for every member, every week.
I already have a strong network. Why would I need this?
A strong existing network is a great starting point — and a ceiling. The people you already know tend to know the same people you do. Arena expands beyond your existing circle deliberately and consistently, introducing you to aligned professionals across sports, media & entertainment you wouldn't have found through the people you already have access to. The best networkers we know use Arena not because their network is weak, but because they know it can always go wider.
I usually rely on people I know to make warm introductions for me.
Warm intros from trusted contacts are valuable — when they happen. But they're irregular, dependent on who your contacts happen to know at any given moment, and skewed toward your existing circle. Arena makes that same quality of introduction consistent. Every Monday, without having to ask anyone for a favor.
Is Arena an app?
Arena is a web-based platform that works on any browser — on your phone or your computer. We are building the mobile app, so stay tuned.
How do I apply?
You can apply at apply.arenatalent.com. The application takes about 2 minutes and asks about your background, industry focus, and what you are looking to get out of the network. Arena is free to apply. Once accepted, you will be required to activate your membership. Applications for our Fall Cohort are open now and close on October 2.
What does the review process look like?
Every application is carefully reviewed by the Arena team. We look at your professional background, industry relevance, and alignment with the community. All applications receive their decision within two (2) business days via email. If accepted, you have a limited seven (7) day enrollment period to confirm your participation in the cohort.
Can someone refer me?
Yes. A current member can give you their referral code. It gives you $20 off your first year or quarter on Arena if accepted.
What if my application is not accepted?
If your application is not accepted, you will be notified via email within two (2) business days of submitting your application. You are welcome to reapply for any future cohort once you meet our member criteria.
What is the 30-day guarantee?
If you activate your Arena membership, show up and engage with your curated intros during your first 30 days — and you still don't find value in the membership — we'll refund you in full. All we ask is that you complete your profile, review your intros each week, meet your matches, and stay engaged. If you put in the effort and it doesn't click, you're covered. View the full Terms & Conditions here.
How does Arena work?
Once accepted, you complete your member profile — your background, interests, and what you are looking for. Each week, Arena curates 3 personalized introductions to other members based on shared interests, goals, and industry overlap. You review your intros, accept or pass, and if you mutually match, you can schedule to meet each other in one click.
How are introductions curated?
Introductions are matched based on your profile, industry focus, career goals, and what you told us you are looking for. The system prioritizes relevance — connecting you with people who are genuinely useful to know, not random matches.
What do I get with my membership?
3 curated intros weekly (personalized just for you), virtual networking events (quarterly, members-only), in-person events (early access in select cities), pause anytime (up to one week a month), and new features first (early access to everything).
How much does membership cost?
Membership is $199/year or $65/quarter. Applying is free. Once accepted, you activate your membership to get started. Arena also offers a 30-day guarantee — if it is not the right fit, you get a full refund.
Can I pause my introductions?
Yes. You can pause your introductions for up to one week per month directly from your account settings. While paused, your intros are held and will resume the following Monday after the one week pause. If you need a longer pause, you can reach out to our team directly at support@arenatalent.com. Pausing your introductions has no effect on your billing.
What kind of events does Arena host?
Arena hosts events around major industry moments — think NBA All-Star, Super Bowl, The Emmys, SXSW, Cannes Lions, and more. We also host curated mixers, dinners, and gatherings designed around shared interests.
Where do events take place?
Events take place across major U.S. and Canadian markets including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, Toronto, Vancouver, San Francisco, and wherever the industry converges for tentpole moments. Our signature events tend to take place in New York and Los Angeles. We will expand to other cities as we grow.
Are events only for Arena members?
No. Arena members get first priority access to register for our events. Remaining space is opened up to non-members to attend, however, all attendees must request access and be accepted. We accept attendees who meet our general member criteria.
Can my company pay for my membership?
Yes. Many members expense their Arena membership as a professional development or networking benefit. We provide a template and instructions on how to request this budget from your company here.
How do I cancel my membership?
You can cancel your membership at any time through your account settings. If you have questions about your account, reach out to support@arenatalent.com.
Still have questions?
Reach out to our team and we'll get back to you.
Applications close Oct 2.