Sponsorship is when a person or organization provides money or support to someone or something in exchange for recognition or other benefits. When a company sponsors a soccer team, they might pay for uniforms and equipment, and in return, their logo appears on the jerseys. When a business sponsors a school science fair, they help fund the prizes and supplies while getting their name mentioned in programs and announcements.

Sponsorships create a partnership where both sides benefit. The sponsor gets positive attention and connects their name with something people care about, while whoever receives the sponsorship gets the resources they need to succeed. A cereal company might sponsor an Olympic athlete, paying for training costs while the athlete promotes their brand. A local bookstore might sponsor a reading program at the library, helping buy books while showing the community they support literacy.

The word can also describe the act of taking responsibility for someone. When an immigrant applies for a visa, a sponsor might be required: someone who vouches for them and promises to help support them. In some organizations, a sponsor is an experienced member who guides and advocates for a newer person, helping them advance.