Charlotte Independence looking for MLS investors (PHOTOS)

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http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2016/10/11/charlotte-independence-looking-for-mls-investors.html

Charlotte Independence looking for MLS investors (PHOTOS)

Oct 11, 2016, 2:59pm EDT Updated Oct 11, 2016, 3:27pm EDT

Now, this is optimism. The Charlotte Independence have hired a sports investment firm to assemble a Major League Soccer ownership group even as the minor league soccer franchise grapples with a second straight season of operating losses totaling $2 million.

Independence managing partner Jim McPhilliamy enlisted Accelerate Sports, a boutique sports investment bank based in Sacramento, to help find the deep pockets needed to pursue an MLS expansion team.

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Lawrence said he doesn’t plan to represent any other MLS candidates now that he is consulting for the Independence.

The proposal in Charlotte would convert the Great Depression-era stadium into a 10,000-seat venue with updated concourses and seating while also leaving a foundation to add 10,000 to 15,000 more seats if an MLS franchise is awarded. Located on Kings Drive near the Elizabeth neighborhood and Central Piedmont Community College, Memorial Stadium is on the edge of uptown and close to the streetcar line.