1. Bank of America partners with Portland Timbers as front-of-jersey sponsor. 2. The deal focuses on community investment and youth soccer accessibility. 3. Bank of America commits $200,000 for local soccer equipment donations. 4. Partnership includes youth camps and small business support initiatives. 5. Tillamook transitions to sleeve patch, continuing community involvement.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
The partnership enhances BAC's community engagement and brand recognition, likely boosting investor sentiment. Similar past deals have positively influenced brand reputation and market perception.
How important is it?
This sponsorship represents a significant community investment, aligning BAC with positive social initiatives, thus enhancing its reputation and potential market growth.
Why Long Term?
Community investment can lead to sustained positive sentiment and customer loyalty, enhancing BAC's long-term presence in the Oregon market. Historical partnerships in sports have yielded returns over extended periods.
Portland Timbers Partner with Bank of America: A New Era of Community Impact
The Portland Timbers have announced a multi-year partnership with Bank of America (BAC) as their new front-of-jersey sponsor. This collaboration aims to enhance community engagement by making soccer more inclusive and accessible for everyone. As part of the agreement, Tillamook will transition its branding on the team's kit from the front to a sleeve patch, signaling continued support for the club.
A Strategic Community-Focused Partnership
Heather Davis, CEO of the Portland Timbers, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Bank of America, stating, "We're proud to welcome Bank of America to the Timbers family... This partnership will provide valuable resources and opportunities for youth in sports, local small businesses, public schools, and more." Starting in 2026, BAC will feature prominently on the Timbers' home and away kits, marking its debut appearance on a professional sports jersey.
Roger Hinshaw, Bank of America’s president for Oregon and Southwest Washington, remarked, "The Timbers are a tremendous asset to Portland... Our collaboration goes well beyond the pitch, as we build programs that create greater access for youth to experience soccer." This commitment to community improvement aligns with Bank of America’s roles as an official sponsor for both FIFA World Cup 26 and U.S. Soccer.
Investing in Youth and Local Businesses
At the heart of this partnership is Bank of America's initiative, "Soccer with Us," which aims to remove barriers to playing soccer and foster community engagement. Key aspects of the program include:
- Community Futsal Courts: Development of 10 futsal courts across Portland and underserved areas in Oregon.
- Camps for All: 50 free youth soccer camps at Providence Park, engaging an estimated 5,000 young athletes.
- Equipped to Play: Donation of $200,000 worth of soccer equipment to local schools and community groups, benefiting over 1,000 youth.
In addition to youth initiatives, Bank of America is committed to bolstering local small businesses through programs such as:
- First Match Access Pass: Providing 100 tickets per game to introduce low-income families to Portland Timbers matches.
- Small Business of the Game: Selection of 50 local small businesses to be promoted at home games, each receiving a $5,000 grant.
- Game Changers of Tomorrow: Recognition of 20 promising students with VIP match experiences and educational grants.
Furthermore, Bank of America will host an annual "Small Business Summit" at Providence Park, offering workshops and networking opportunities for over 100 local enterprises.
Continuing a Legacy with Tillamook
Tillamook has been a steadfast partner of the Timbers since 2014 and will maintain its presence on team jerseys through a sleeve patch. This transition reflects not only the enduring relationship but also a shared commitment to the community. "We're thrilled to continue our partnership with the Portland Timbers," stated Kate Boltin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Tillamook.
About the Portland Timbers
The Portland Timbers are a prominent professional soccer club in the United States based in Portland, Oregon. Since their establishment in 1975, they have built a rich legacy in soccer and joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2011, securing their first championship in 2015.
About Bank of America
Bank of America (BAC) is a leading global financial institution that offers a wide array of banking, investing, and financial management services. With approximately 70 million consumer clients and a robust digital banking platform, BAC is committed to enhancing the economic health of communities across the United States.