STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | April 2, 2026  — In a move that underscores its commitment beyond the pitch, FC Dallas announced Thursday the newest addition to its 2026 Homegrown Partner Program, continuing a growing initiative that blends professional sports with community-driven economic development across North Texas.

For the sixth consecutive year, the club—supported by global insurance brokerage firm Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.—has selected a minority-owned business to receive a customized corporate partnership designed to elevate visibility, expand reach and drive long-term growth. This year’s honoree, Lil’Marco and Friends, represents both a cultural and educational mission rooted deeply within the Dallas-Fort Worth community.

Since launching the program in 2020, FC Dallas has invested more than $2 million into 20 locally owned businesses, using its platform at Toyota Stadium and across Major League Soccer to amplify underrepresented entrepreneurs.

A Program Built on Purpose

The Homegrown Partner Program has steadily evolved into one of the most impactful community initiatives tied to an MLS club. By integrating selected businesses into sponsorship opportunities, matchday experiences and digital campaigns, FC Dallas provides a level of exposure typically reserved for established corporate partners.

Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Megan Miller emphasized the program’s continued growth and relevance.

“We’re thrilled to welcome another outstanding local business into our Homegrown Partner Program,” Miller said. “As we enter our sixth year, the program continues to evolve in exciting ways. Thanks to the support of Gallagher, we’re deepening community connections and helping drive meaningful economic growth throughout North Texas.”

The initiative aligns with the club’s broader identity—one that has long prioritized youth development, diversity and community engagement alongside on-field performance.

Spotlight on 2026 Selection

Lil’Marco and Friends, founded by award-winning author and illustrator Sharon Jones-Scaife, brings a mission-driven approach to children’s literacy. The brand focuses on creating culturally relevant stories that empower young readers, particularly within underserved communities.

Through books, school visits and interactive events, Lil’Marco and Friends aims to address literacy gaps while promoting confidence and self-identity among children. Its emphasis on representation—ensuring that young readers can see themselves reflected in stories—resonated strongly with FC Dallas’ values.

Jones-Scaife described the partnership as both personal and transformative.

“Lil’ Marco and Friends was created from a deeply personal place with a mission to close the literacy gap and ensure every child feels seen, valued and inspired,” she said. “This partnership represents more than an opportunity—it’s a chance to bring literacy, representation and joy to families across our community in a meaningful and visible way.”

Building a Legacy Off the Field

The addition of Lil’Marco and Friends marks a milestone for the program, which now includes 20 businesses spanning industries from food and fitness to technology and creative services. Previous honorees—such as The Cookie Society, Urban Hydration and Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que—have leveraged the platform to expand their brands and deepen community ties.

What distinguishes the initiative is its sustainability. Rather than a one-time recognition, each partnership includes long-term marketing integration, allowing businesses to grow alongside the club’s audience and reach.

For FC Dallas, the program reflects a broader philosophy: success is measured not only in wins and standings, but also in the ability to uplift the community it represents.

The Bigger Picture

As MLS continues to expand its footprint across North America, clubs like FC Dallas are increasingly using their influence to address social and economic disparities at the local level. The Homegrown Partner Program stands as a model for how professional sports organizations can create tangible impact beyond game day.

With the 2026 season underway, FC Dallas will once again balance its competitive ambitions on the field with initiatives that resonate far beyond it. The partnership with Lil’Marco and Friends adds another chapter to that mission—one rooted in opportunity, representation and lasting community change.

In Frisco, the game is more than 90 minutes. It’s a platform—and FC Dallas continues to use it to build something bigger.