FRISCO, Texas (April 2, 2026) — FC Dallas has announced the Dallas-Fort Worth-based business selected for the club’s 2026 Homegrown Partner Program class. Supported by Gallagher, the Homegrown Partner Program is continuing for the sixth consecutive year supporting minority-owned businesses through the power of sports marketing and FC Dallas’ platform.
Launched in 2020, the program has now served 20 locally owned businesses through customized corporate partnerships. FC Dallas has committed more than $2 million in support since the program’s inception.
The club will welcome Lil’Marco and Friends as the 2026 FC Dallas Homegrown Partner Program selection.
“We’re thrilled to welcome another outstanding local business into our Homegrown Partner Program,” said Megan Miller, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for FC Dallas and Toyota Stadium.” As we enter our sixth year, the program continues to evolve in exciting ways. Thanks to the support of our corporate partner, Gallagher, we’re deepening community connections and helping drive meaningful economic growth throughout North Texas.”
2026 Homegrown Partner Program Class
Lil’Marco and Friends – Lil’ Marco and Friends is a purpose-driven children’s literacy brand dedicated to helping every child see themselves as the hero of their own story. Founded by award-winning author and illustrator Sharon Jones-Scaife, the brand creates joy-filled books and products that celebrate Black culture, spark imagination, and build confidence in young readers.
Rooted in representation and community, Lil’ Marco and Friends brings stories to life through books, school visits, and engaging events that connect with families and educators. Through every story, the brand inspires children to feel seen, valued, and proud of who they are.
“I am truly honored and grateful to be selected as a 2026 FC Dallas Homegrown Partner," Jones-Scaife said. "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 through the power of storytelling.
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. I’m excited to work alongside FC Dallas to create experiences that inspire children both on and off the field.”
With the addition of Lil’ Marco and Friends, the Homegrown Partner Program has now featured 20 businesses since its launch, including these honorees from the previous five classes:
- 2021: Casa M Spice, GRIT Fitness, Reveal Suits, Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que, Urban Hydration
- 2022: The Cookie Society, Esposure, The Good Jerky, iCode, Southwest Mobile Advertising
- 2023: Avery’s Savory Popcorn, Flatrock Smokehouse BBQ Catering, Hustle Clean, Oasis Accents, Sol Dias Ice Cream
- 2024: Bagelology, Unica Enterprises
- 2025: Detour Doughnuts, Rayson’s Creations Kaptured Memories
For more on the Homegrown Partner Program, visit fcdallas.com/homegrownpartners.
