Total Pro Sports
The Green Bay Packers have one of the most unique ownership structures in professional sports. Unlike most teams, they are not owned by a single person or private group. Instead, they are owned by thousands of fans who hold shares in the team. This public ownership model has helped the Packers remain in Green Bay, a small city by NFL standards, for over a century.
The team’s history is closely tied to its community, and its structure reflects a deep commitment to shared responsibility and local pride. Understanding how this came to be requires looking back at the team’s early financial struggles and the strong community support that shaped its future.
The Packers were founded in 1919 by Curly Lambeau and George Calhoun. In the early years, the team faced financial problems. To save the team, local fans were invited to buy small shares. This idea worked well and helped the Packers stay in Green Bay, even though it was a small city. This early step laid the foundation for their special ownership structure.
In 1935, the Packers became a nonprofit corporation. Unlike other football teams owned by rich individuals or companies, the Packers were owned by the public. This means thousands of people could become part-owners of the team. The team does not aim to make profits for its owners but to stay strong and support the local community.
Over the years, the Packers have held six stock sales. These sales happened in 1923, 1935, 1950, 1997, 2011, and 2021. The most recent sale in 2021 offered shares for 300 dollars each. These shares do not pay dividends and cannot be sold for profit. However, they give fans a chance to be a part of the team’s ownership and to vote in certain matters.
To make sure no single person controls the team, rules are in place. No one is allowed to own more than a certain number of shares. Also, if the team is ever sold or closed, the money would go to charity, not to the shareholders. This rule shows that the team is owned for the good of the community.
The team is managed by a board of directors elected by the shareholders. From this group, a smaller executive committee is chosen to make major decisions. This committee acts as the official owner in NFL matters. The team also has a president who handles everyday operations. In 2025, a new president will take over as part of a planned leadership change.
Even though the Packers are not owned by a rich individual, they are still very successful. Their income each year is high, and the team uses the money to improve the stadium and support football operations. All profits are reinvested into the team.
The Packers are the...
