The University of Utah and Otro Capital officially finalized a deal Thursday to launch Crimson Brand Partners, a new commercial operating company intended to generate sustainable revenue for Utah Athletics. The company is scheduled to begin operations on July 1.
Scope of new commercial operations
Crimson Brand Partners will manage commercial operations across the university's athletics department, including branding, licensing, sponsorships, ticketing, and digital media for venues such as Rice-Eccles Stadium and the Huntsman Center. According to the Daily Utah Chronicle, the structure is designed to professionalize operations without selling the athletics department or impacting coaching, recruiting, or student-athlete support.
Goals for athletic financial sustainability
University President Taylor Randall stated that the move aims to keep Utes sports programs financially sustainable. Athletics Director Mark Harlan, who will chair the company's board, noted the goal is to maximize revenue for core programs and protect women's and Olympic sports as costs rise.
Leadership and staffing plans
The new venture will be led by CEO Matt Webb, a former executive with the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans. The leadership team also includes Chief Commercial Officer Alex Schulte, Chief Ticketing Officer Joel Adams, and CFO Garrett Best. The company plans to initially integrate approximately 15 current Utah Athletics employees, with expectations to grow to roughly 70 staff members over time.
Ogden School District summer programs
In the Ogden School District, summer programming remains active following the conclusion of the school year. The district's Summer Meals Program, which began June 1, continues to provide free breakfast and lunch to children ages 0–18 at various locations Monday through Friday.
Upcoming community swim clinics
Additionally, Ben Lomond Community Pool will host weekly swim clinics for high school students ages 13–18 on July 11, 18, 25, and August 1, 8, and 15. The sessions run from 7:00 to 8:45 AM and cost $40 per clinic.
Regional educational and school updates
Other regional educational updates include registration for OTECH High School, which opens in July and offers personalized learning plans to any high school student in Utah at no cost. In Tooele, the junior high school previously announced summer office hours and a board of education budget hearing for June 2026.
