Live Oak Bank Partners with UNCW Athletics
News related to:Live Oak Bank · 1 min read
WILMINGTON, N.C., Sept. 14, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Live Oak Bank has secured a significant partnership with the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) by being named the official business bank of UNCW Athletics. This multi-year agreement expands on an existing relationship that includes the title sponsorship of the Live Oak Bank Holiday Classic men's basketball tournament.
The partnership will provide Live Oak Bank with year-round visibility across UNCW Athletics, including men’s and women’s basketball games at Trask Coliseum and baseball matches at Brooks Field. This collaboration is expected to enhance the bank’s presence in the local community and reach a broader audience, particularly Wilmington’s small business owners.
Live Oak Bank has a long-standing connection with UNCW, with more than 200 alumni employed at the bank. The bank is a consistent participant in Business Week at the Cameron School of Business and actively engages in mentoring and volunteering activities across the university.
Michael Oblinger, director of athletics at UNCW, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting, "Bringing together two institutions that are so deeply connected to Wilmington makes this partnership especially meaningful. Live Oak Bank has been an incredible member of our community, and we are excited to build on our relationship and take it to the next level."
The sponsorship also aligns with Live Oak Bank’s mission to serve America’s small businesses. The bank offers a range of financial products, including business loans, business checking and savings accounts, and high-yield personal savings and CD accounts. This partnership is expected to provide additional support and resources to local businesses, further solidifying Live Oak’s commitment to the Wilmington community.
This agreement is part of a broader strategy by Live Oak Bank to strengthen its ties with the local community and support the growth of small businesses. The bank’s presence in UNCW Athletics will not only enhance its brand visibility but also contribute to the university’s efforts to support its student-athletes and the greater Wilmington community.