Sky Bet and EFL Launch “Building Foundations” Fund for Community Projects
Sky Bet, the UK sports betting brand and title partner of the English Football League (EFL), has partnered with the EFL to launch the “Building Foundations” Fund. This fund aims to provide £6 million in funding for community projects across England and Wales. It is the largest sponsor-backed fund dedicated to community activity and offers EFL clubs the opportunity to bid for grants of up to £100,000 for ongoing programs or new initiatives.
Starting from the 2023/24 season, Sky Bet will contribute £1 million per year to the fund. An expert panel, including Sky Bet ambassador Jeff Stelling, will evaluate and choose the winning bids in various categories, such as improving local sports facilities or promoting the physical and social benefits of the game. To kick off the fund, Club Community Organizations (CCOs) at each of the 72 EFL Clubs will receive an initial grant of £10,000.
Dan Colton, Managing Director at Sky Bet, expressed pride in their partnership with the EFL and their commitment to raising the bar with the “Building Foundations” Fund. Colton believes that the fund will make a significant impact on important projects across England and Wales.
EFL chair Rick Parry praised the fund for providing unrestricted funding for community activity and its potential to enhance the impact of EFL clubs in their respective areas. Parry expressed gratitude to Sky Bet for their ongoing support and investment in the professional game.
Jeff Stelling, former Sky Sports Soccer Saturday lead presenter, is also excited to be involved in the “Building Foundations” Fund, acknowledging the financial struggles faced by lower league clubs and their communities. Stelling sees the fund as an opportunity to make a real difference.
The initial £10,000 grant from the fund will be used by Blackburn Rovers to grow their “Remember the Rovers” program. This program brings people living with dementia together through football memories, combating social isolation.
Overall, the “Building Foundations” Fund aims to create a lasting legacy for the EFL and Sky Bet partnership, supporting community programs and initiatives that promote the positive impact of sports.
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