At HMB Accountants, we believe in helping businesses live long and prosper—but our mission doesn't stop at balance sheets and tax returns. We also believe in supporting our local community, and what better way to do that than by backing local sports teams?
That's why we're proud to sponsor Luke Waterfall, a key player at Hartlepool United Football Club. We also donate to Phoenix Kickboxing in Hartlepool to enable a child to attend the sessions who wouldn't usually be able to afford to.
Sponsoring local sports isn't just about putting a logo on a kit—it's an investment in the community, the local economy, and even your own business. Here's why supporting local sports makes sense for businesses like ours.
Strengthening the Local Community
Football clubs like Hartlepool United are at the heart of the local community. They bring people together, create a sense of pride, and inspire the next generation. By sponsoring players like Luke Waterfall, we're supporting more than just a team—we're backing a shared passion that unites fans, families, and businesses across Tees Valley.
Small businesses thrive when their communities thrive. A strong local football team means busier pubs, more foot traffic for local shops, and more opportunities for businesses to engage with their customers in a meaningful way.
Raising Brand Awareness in the Right Places
Sponsoring a local sports team isn't just a good deed—it's also good marketing. Every match, every social media post, and every local news mention is a chance for our brand to be seen by potential customers.
For businesses like HMB Accountants, this means getting our name in front of other local business owners, entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals—the very people who need expert accounting advice. A well-placed sponsorship can be more effective (and more personal) than traditional advertising. It can also attract tax relief depending on the donation or sponsorship.
And let's be honest—who doesn't love seeing their company's name associated with a hard working team?
Building Trust and Credibility
Customers today care about more than just products and services—they want to work with businesses that are invested in their community. Sponsoring local sports is a great way to show that you're not just here to do business—you're here to support local people and local dreams.
For us, that means demonstrating that we're more than just accountants—we're real people who care about helping businesses, supporting local talent, and being part of something bigger. It builds trust, creates positive brand associations, and strengthens relationships with existing and potential clients.
Networking and Business Opportunities
Supporting local sports teams often opens up valuable networking opportunities. Whether it's meeting other sponsors, engaging with the club's business community, or simply chatting with fellow fans, sports sponsorship connects businesses in a natural and authentic way.
For business owners, this means:
- Meeting potential clients in an informal setting
- Strengthening relationships with other local businesses
- Gaining access to corporate events, hospitality opportunities, and promotional partnerships
Being involved in Hartlepool United isn't just about supporting the team on the pitch—it's about creating lasting connections off it.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Local sports teams inspire young athletes and create opportunities for the next generation of talent. Sponsorships help fund training facilities, youth programs, and community engagement initiatives, making sure that young players have the resources they need to succeed.
By supporting players like Luke Waterfall, we're helping to keep the spirit of local sport alive, ensuring that young players see a clear pathway to professional football.
And who knows? The next great footballing talent might just come from Tees Valley—and they might remember the businesses that helped make it happen!
The Bottom Line: A Win-Win for Everyone
At HMB Accountants, we know that good business is about more than just numbers—it's about people, passion, and community. Supporting Hartlepool United and Luke Waterfall isn't just about football—it's about investing in local pride, local businesses, and a thriving local economy.
So whether you're a small business owner looking to grow, a football fan cheering from the stands, or a local entrepreneur thinking about sponsorship, remember: supporting local sports is more than just a gesture—it's a smart business move that benefits everyone.
Up the Pools!