M&T Bank has extended it sports sponsorship focus beyond simply to teams to recognising individual athletes with the launch of Team M&T.
The sponsorship initiative aims to celebrate the influence of individual athletes and their impact on and off the field and kicks off with four athletes.
The athletes include Emily Sonnett, a Gotham FC soccer player, World Cup champion and Olympic gold medallist, and Noelle Lambert, a two-time Paralympian in track and field.
Also part of the initiative are Lois Cook, professional football player with the DC Divas and founder of a girls’ football league in Loudoun County, and Zay Flowers, wide receiver for the Baltimore Ravens and the franchise’s first Pro Bowl selection at the position.
To build the team, M&T collaborated with women’s sports consultancy Parity to select athletes whose values and achievements reflect the bank’s commitment to leadership, integrity and making a meaningful impact.
The bank also worked with agency partner Crowley Webb to create a social media strategy designed to engage both consumers and fans with authentic, compelling content.
The launch builds on M&T’s long-standing sports partnerships, including its role as the official bank of the Buffalo Bills and naming rights partner for M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens. With Team M&T, the bank is broadening its focus to spotlight individual athletes and the causes they support.
Krista Phillips, chief customer officer at M&T, said: “This partnership reflects the growing interest in who professional athletes are both on and off the field. Our Team M&T athletes are purpose-driven and deeply engaged in causes and connections beyond their sport,
“These athletes are not just competitors, they’re connectors, mentors and advocates. Their stories resonate with fans and customers alike, and we’re proud to stand beside and invest in them as they use their voices and platforms to make a positive impact and inspire others.”