Heracles, together with the FC Twente/Heracles Academy, has launched the new sponsorship concept ‘Steuntje op de rug’, allowing companies to directly support the development of regional football talent. The initiative, announced on the official website, assigns each youth team from U12 to U21 its own back‑of‑shirt sponsor.

How does the sponsorship concept work?

The scheme provides eight back‑sponsor slots; each receives an exclusive partner for one youth team. In addition to shirt placement, partners get a comprehensive package with networking events and exposure at De Grolsch Veste, Asito Stadium and the training centre in Hengelo. Rabobank Twente has already chosen the U19 team, while Artific has committed to the U21 squad. These companies will see their logos on the back of the shirts and gain access to young players through clinics and training sessions.

Why does this matter for Heracles?

Heracles currently sits 18th in the Eredivisie, with 19 points from 34 games (5W‑4D‑25L) and a recent form of LLLLL. The club’s management is looking for extra resources to strengthen the youth academy so the talent pipeline to the first team can be accelerated. The additional financial boost will enable better training facilities and scouting, essential given the 65‑point gap behind leaders PSV Eindhoven.

Who benefits from the partnership?

For Rabobank Twente, the partnership enhances its regional image; bank representative Robin Geerdink stresses the desire to give local talent a chance. Artific partner Ivo Rupert sees it as an opportunity to link Twente entrepreneurship with sporting growth. Both companies gain not only advertising but also a direct role in shaping players who could later join Heracles’ senior squad.

What’s next on the agenda?

The first partners have already announced their support, and the academy plans a series of presentations for the new back sponsors in the coming weeks. The concept will be fully integrated from the new season onward, ensuring each youth team from U12 onward has a dedicated sponsor. With the next competitive match against Jong Ajax (away, 2026‑11‑27) in sight, Heracles hopes to translate youth energy into better results for the first team.

Heracles continues to seek creative solutions to strengthen the club financially and sportingly, and this sponsorship concept is a concrete step toward a more sustainable future for both the youth setup and the senior side.