#United States #Portland #Bank of America #Tillamook #Portland Timbers

Portland Timbers and Bank of America Join Forces for Community Impact

The Portland Timbers, a cherished name in American soccer, have recently formed an extensive partnership with one of the leading financial institutions, Bank of America. Announced on December 9, 2025, this collaboration marks both an exciting new chapter for the club and a significant commitment to the local community.

A Historic Partnership

Bank of America will become the club's premier front-of-jersey partner during this multi-year deal, making history as the first time the financial giant has appeared on a professional sports jersey. This partnership isn't merely about branding; it is firmly rooted in community impact and the shared goal of making soccer more accessible and inclusive for everyone in the Portland area. Heather Davis, CEO of the Portland Timbers, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We're proud to welcome Bank of America to the Timbers family, and together we are committed to making a meaningful impact in our community."

Investing in Youth and Local Businesses

One of the foundational aspects of this partnership is the commitment to invest in local youth. The new initiative, called "Soccer with Us," is designed to alleviate barriers to playing soccer, thereby increasing equity through grassroots programs. These efforts include organizing free camps, providing equipment donations, and enhancing public infrastructure. A notable element of this initiative involves the construction of "Community Futsal Courts," with plans to build or refurbish ten courts in Portland and underserved areas in Oregon. This will create more opportunities for young athletes to engage in safe, inclusive play.

Additionally, the partnership will run the "Camps for All" program, offering 50 free youth soccer camps at Providence Park and select locations, targeting approximately 5,000 young athletes. The Timbers and Bank of America will also donate a substantial amount in soccer equipment to local schools and community organizations, aiming to support around 1,000 youths, including those from Special Olympics programs.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Beyond youth engagement, this collaboration aims to foster economic growth within the Portland area. Through various initiatives, such as the "First Match Access Pass," Bank of America will introduce new families to the Timbers by providing 100 free tickets per game. Similarly, the "Small Business of the Game" platform will spotlight 50 local small businesses over the partnership duration, coupled with $5,000 grants to each selected business.

Other programs include the identification of exceptional local students through the "Game Changers of Tomorrow" initiative, providing them with a VIP experience at a Timbers match along with educational grants. Furthermore, an annual "Small Business Summit" at Providence Park will bring together over 100 local businesses for networking and growth opportunities.

Continued Commitment from Tillamook

In addition to Bank of America’s significant contributions, Tillamook has played an essential and supportive role in the club’s community initiatives since 2014. As part of this new partnership framework, Tillamook will transition its jersey placement from the front to a sleeve patch, symbolizing its ongoing commitment to the Timbers and the community they serve. Tillamook's Senior Vice President of Marketing, Kate Boltin, expressed excitement about continuing to promote the Pacific Northwest's values, indicating that they share a commitment to community excellence alongside the Timbers.

Looking Towards the Future

For the Timbers, this multi-faceted partnership with Bank of America is a pivotal step toward cementing their role as a community leader in Portland and beyond. The club, founded in 1975 and known for its vibrant soccer culture, is now focused on leveraging this partnership for broader community benefits. As the partnership officially kicks off in 2026, the Timbers aim to create long-lasting impacts through these soccer initiatives and community-focused programs.

Conclusion

In summary, the convergence of the Portland Timbers and Bank of America is set to pave the way for an exciting future, characterized by enhanced community engagement, accessibility in sports, and economic opportunities. With the heart of soccer firmly embedded in its initiatives, this partnership not only strengthens local ties but also celebrates the spirit of community in the beautiful game.