Sherrod Seward

Sherrod Seward, Esq., is a renowned attorney and business strategist based in South Florida. As the principal of Sherrod Sports Visas, he has secured O and P visas for elite clients, including boxing champions Canelo Alvarez and Tyson Fury, NFL players, NASCAR teams, and One Championship fighters. His work extends to current partnerships with several world champions, solidifying his reputation in sports immigration law.

Sherrod also brings extensive experience in trade finance, having served as a broker for export trade credit and political risk insurance with International Risk Consultants Inc., the largest specialty brokerage in the U.S. He played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, leveraging resources from the Export-Import Bank of the United States to support U.S. exporters with liquidity challenges. His efforts included securing presidential exemptions for international sports events during the crisis.

In the tech space, Sherrod has been instrumental in talent acquisition and fundraising, offering AI-driven strategies through his firm, Innovative Global Holdings. He has worked closely with startups to navigate the complexities of early-stage development and capital raising, helping founders achieve sustainable growth.

Sherrod holds a Juris Doctor from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Hampton University. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the Sports Lawyers Association, and the Esports Bar Association. Additionally, he served on Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles' International Cabinet, advising on global business strategies.

With a career defined by innovation and client success, Sherrod Seward continues to make an impact in sports, trade, and tech, bridging industries and creating pathways for talent and businesses worldwide.

• Talent Based Immigration Law
• Sports Immigration Law

• Free Consultation
  We give basic information over the phone but more detailed consultations require a formal consultation request and a small fee
• Credit Cards Accepted
• Contingent Fees
  For certain types of cases, some fees can be administered on a contingent basis.

Managing Member

Innovative Global Talent Agency

2023 - 2024

Niche Petitioner Services: Developed a specialized agency providing visa and immigration solutions tailored to elite global talent. Acted as petitioner and representative for world-renowned individuals, including Canelo Álvarez, Francis Ngannou, Kim Clijsters, and others, ensuring seamless cross-border transitions. Global Recruitment and Talent Management: Recruited top-tier talent from diverse industries, leveraging sports visa frameworks to solve complex global mobility challenges in traditional industries such as tech, entertainment, and business. Business Development and Partnerships: Established strategic partnerships with leading technology companies, law firms, and industry stakeholders to create innovative solutions for foreign talent recruitment and retention. Workflow Optimization and Operations Management: Designed and implemented scalable workflows to streamline operations, enhance client outcomes, and maintain compliance with international regulatory standards.

Managing Member

The Law Offices of Sherrod Seward (DBA Sherrod Sports Visas, Oakhurst Legal Group, Innovative Immigration Law)

2017 - 2023

Business Development: Spearheaded growth to establish the firm as the nation's most active immigration practice for combat sports athletes. Cultivated high-profile clients, including Top Rank Inc., Canelo Álvarez, NBA G League, LA Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and the Las Vegas Golden Knights, among hundreds of others. Global Relationship Building: Fostered strategic alliances with law firms, sports organizations, and stakeholders worldwide, including executive leadership in major league franchises. Expanded expertise to include advisory roles in entertainment and tech industries, driving innovation across diverse sectors. Thought Leadership and Reputation Management: Built a global reputation as an authority in sports and immigration law. Featured as a panelist, speaker, and committee member for the Sports Lawyers Association, American Bar Association (Sports and Entertainment Section), and American Immigration Lawyers Association. Recognized by bar associations nationwide for leadersh

Managing Member

The Law Offices of Sherrod Seward (DBA Sherrod Sports Visas, Oakhurst Legal Group, Innovative Immigration Law)

2017 - 2023

Business Development: Spearheaded growth to establish the firm as the nation's most active immigration practice for combat sports athletes. Cultivated high-profile clients, including Top Rank Inc., Canelo Álvarez, NBA G League, LA Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and the Las Vegas Golden Knights, among hundreds of others. Global Relationship Building: Fostered strategic alliances with law firms, sports organizations, and stakeholders worldwide, including executive leadership in major league franchises. Expanded expertise to include advisory roles in entertainment and tech industries, driving innovation across diverse sectors. Thought Leadership and Reputation Management: Built a global reputation as an authority in sports and immigration law. Featured as a panelist, speaker, and committee member for the Sports Lawyers Association, American Bar Association (Sports and Entertainment Section), and American Immigration Lawyers Association. Recognized by bar associations nationwide for leadersh

South East Business Development - Export-Import Bank Focus

International Risk Consultants

2014 - 2018

Placing High-Value Coverage: Successfully placed coverage for over $200 million in exports within the first two years, enabling clients to safeguard foreign receivables and access structured trade finance programs. Business Development Expertise: Independently managed client acquisition and relationship-building efforts across the Southeastern U.S., including cold-calling prospects and converting leads into long-term clients. Deal Structuring and Collaboration: Partnered with CFOs, trade credit underwriters, and international bankers to design and broker customized insurance policies that mitigated risk and facilitated cross-border financial operations. Asset-Based Lending Solutions: Collaborated closely with the Capital Finance Division to align asset-based lending strategies with client needs, providing comprehensive financial solutions to support international growth. Education and Public Engagement: Represented the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. in educational seminars and industry

Procurement Specialist (Post Award)

Defense Supply Center Columbus (contractor)

2012 - 2012

Managed post-award contract administration for Department of Defense programs, ensuring strict compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations, contract terms, and delivery milestones. Conducted contract performance reviews and facilitated modifications to address evolving program requirements and ensure mission-critical objectives were met. Oversaw financial reporting, invoice processing, and compliance audits to support accurate fund allocation and minimize risk of disputes. Collaborated with contracting officers, subcontractors, and stakeholders to resolve performance issues and maintain continuity of operations for high-value federal projects. Enhanced litigation preparedness by streamlining documentation systems and ensuring alignment with federal acquisition standards and best practices.

Cleveland State University

J.D. (2012) | Juris Doctorate

2009 - 2012

Hampton University

B.S. (2009) | Marketing

2004 - 2009

Nominated for United Nations' 2018 Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), Under 40, Global 100 List.

United Nations

2017

In support of the International Decade for People of African Descent, proclaimed by United Nation's General Assembly resolution 68/237 and to be observed from 2015 to 2024, the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) identifies high achievers of African descent in public and private sectors from all around the world as a progressive network of relevant actors to join together in the spirit of recognition, justice and development of Africa, it's people on the continent and across it's Diaspora.

American Immigration Lawyers Association

Member of North Carolina Chapter

Current

Charlotte Chamber

Member

Current

Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce

Member

Current

Charlotte World Affairs Council

Member

Current

As NASCAR gains popularity, more women are looking to make their way onto the track

News3 Las Vegas

March 6, 2023

The Campaign to Fix a Glaring Problem With NIL

Front Office Sports

February 3, 2023

Sherrod Sports Visas Scores Legal Victory in Complaint Against USCIS and DOH

Sherrod Sports Visas

December 14, 2022

For Some Pro Athletes on Visas, The Future Isn’t Guaranteed - NFL Agent Petition

Front Office Sports

November 22, 2022

MMA Mania Speaks with Sherrod Seward about Combat Sports Immigration

MMA Mania / USA Today Sports

September 15, 2022

Legal Night at Steele Creek, Immigration Panel, Charlotte, nc

March 4, 2017

Andrew J Fede

On March 4, 2017, Partners Dinh Tran and Seward Seward will participate as panelist for Legal Night at Steele Creek. This panel will be hosted by local activist Andrew J. Fede and will take place at Steele Creek AME Zion Church located at 1500 Shopton Road, Charlotte, NC 28217. This event is free to the public and will discuss important topics surrounding changes made by the new Presidential administration.

TMS: International Career Panel, EXIM Export Essentials Symposium, Charlotte, NC

August 4, 2017

The Magellan Society and UNC Charlotte’s Office of International Programs

Join The Magellan Society and UNC Charlotte’s Office of International Programs for the opportunity to network and hear several early-career professionals discuss the international elements of their careers in law, education, not-for-profit and engineering. The panelists will speak about their experiences and offer valuable advice to those about to enter the job market and pursue work in international fields.

How to mitigate payment risks, EXIM Export Essentials Symposium, Charlotte, NC

November 9, 2017

Export-Import Bank of the United States

On November 9, 2017, Queen City Immigration Law Partner Seward Seward will participate as a speaker for the Export Import Bank of the United State’s (“EXIM”) Export Essentials Symposium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Sherrod formally worked with one of the premier brokers of EXIM products in the world and is currently an authorized broker of EXIM credit insurance programs.

Africa Energy Trade: How to profit and keep it, DIVERSIFY AND EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH EXPOR, Atlanta Georgia

October 4, 2016

Export-Import Bank of the United States

The Carolinas, with its 1000+ energy companies and organizations, is believed to be the largest energy economy in the eastern United States and has become an emerging leader in sourcing energy services, products and project development facilitation in sub-Saharan Africa. U.S. and African energy policy officials and executives engaged in Africa – Carolinas energy trade will meet in Charlotte to learn of opportunities and develop partnerships with which to pursue projects, capital, products and services. This is a CLOSED Format Event. This exclusive invitation is for Exporters only - http://www.exim.gov/events/exporting-navigating-global-market

Exporting - Navigating the Global Market, DIVERSIFY AND EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH EXPOR, Atlanta Georgia

August 11, 2016

Export-Import Bank of the United States

Join Leaders in International Business to learn about the latest trends in exporting. This is a CLOSED Format Event. This exclusive invitation is for Exporters only - http://www.exim.gov/events/exporting-navigating-global-market

Property & Casualty Insurance Broker

State of North Carolina

Broker for Credit Insurance

Export-Import Bank of the United States

Member

Export Legal Assistance Network