Become a Founding Sponsor
Help us launch Generation WE's very first Matching Challenge Fund — and make your gift do double duty before the event even begins.
What is the Matching Challenge Fund?
It's a multiplier, not just a donation. Each Founding Sponsor pledges their own $10,000 match — and the moment Generation WE reaches $10,000 in outside sponsorships for Unique Sneaks '26, every single Founding Sponsor's pledge triggers at once, doubling that impact instantly.
And the best part? It doesn't stop at one. Every Founding Sponsor's pledge stacks: one Founding Sponsor turns $10,000 raised into $20,000. Two turn it into $30,000. There's no limit to how big this can grow — the more who step up, the bigger the impact for every gift that comes in.
How it works
You commit as a Founding Sponsor
Your organization pledges toward the $10,000 match — either the full amount on your own, or a portion alongside other businesses. Multiple Founding Sponsors are welcome, and each pledge stacks with the others.
We launch the Matching Challenge
Generation WE announces the fund to our full sponsor and donor network, with your organization credited as a founding partner behind the initiative.
Once we hit $10,000, the match is triggered
As other sponsors and donors give, their gifts count toward our $10,000 goal — first wave or second, it doesn't matter. The moment we reach it, every Founding Sponsor's pledge is triggered at once, doubling the full $10,000 already raised.
More children walk in their story
The matched dollars translate directly into more painters, more free books, and more families reached through Unique Sneaks '26 and Generation WE's year-round programs.
Why organizations say yes
Visionary Partner Recognition
Named as one of the launch partners behind Generation WE's first-ever Matching Challenge, throughout the sponsorship campaign and at the event.
Amplified Impact
Every dollar your organization inspires from other donors is effectively doubled — your gift multiplies giving, not just adds to it.
First-Mover Visibility
Featured across our Save the Date campaign, ticket launch, website, and social media as an early, founding-level supporter.
A Story Worth Telling
A distinct, easy-to-explain CSR story: "we didn't just sponsor an event — we helped launch a fund that multiplied community giving."
“To see the individuality celebrated in each pair of sneakers is exactly why Generation WE exists. We know when these children walk away from this event, they have a strong sense of self, a pride in their unique stories, and can now literally walk in their gifts and dreams every single day.”
Ready to help us launch the fund?
Founding Sponsor spots are limited to a small group of inaugural partners. Reach out and we'll walk you through commitment levels and recognition details.
Two dates to know:
August 29 — Updated: confirm by this date and Generation WE will sponsor 4 additional children and their families to attend at no cost, plus you'll be featured in our early Save the Date campaign.
September 15 — final deadline for any sponsorship commitment to be included in event planning and recognition materials.
on your phone in seconds
jimmy@joingenerationwe.org
The Vault, Bank of America Stadium — Charlotte, NC