Monarch Mortgages becomes Official Sponsor of Gillingham FC through Sage’s ‘Behind the Badge Competition’
Business owner, Simon King, visited the team at Gillingham FC to celebrate the sponsorship alongside goalkeeper Glenn Morris
Simon is one of three grand prize winners recognised for their contributions to local football communities
Gillingham FC has announced Kent based small business, Monarch Mortgages, as an official club sponsor following a nationwide competition run by Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses.
The sponsorship has been awarded through Sage’s Behind the Badge competition, which celebrates small businesses that play a vital role in their local football communities. As the Official Accounting Software Partner of the English Football League (EFL), Sage created the initiative to recognise businesses that go beyond their day-to-day work to make a positive impact where they live and operate.
Today, Gillingham FC goalkeeper Glenn Morris met Monarch Mortgages owner Simon King to congratulate them on securing the exclusive, 2025/2026 season sponsorship package at the Sky Bet League Two club.
Monarch Mortgages is a Gillingham-based business that’s been helping local people secure their dream homes since 2020. From sponsoring youth teams with kits and training, to running monthly fundraising events, they’ve spent years building strong ties with the local football community. Their financial literacy workshops and matchday activities help fans thrive both on the pitch and at home.
Fans will see Monarch Mortgage’s branding around MEMS Priestfield Stadium this season as well as across the Club’s digital channels, with players helping to share the company’s story.
Gary Neville, Sage Ambassador, praised Monarch Mortgages for its work in the local community: “We all know just how much of a role local businesses play in supporting their cities and towns on match days across the country. Congratulations to Monarch Mortgages on their win, they should be proud of the work they do for their local community in Gillingham. It’s important that we highlight the businesses that keep local communities moving and I’m proud that we can play a small role in championing them.”
Simon King, co-owner of Monarch Mortgages, said: "We're a family-run business, so winning this award is fantastic for us and our growth. Having the opportunity to work with Gillingham F.C. throughout the season and strengthen our ties with our local community is an honour - we're excited to get started"
Sally Moore, Global Head of Sponsorship at Sage, added: “Monarch Mortgages stood out for its unwavering support of football and youth sport in the Gillingham area and its deep-rooted passion for the club. Behind every EFL Club is a dedicated network of small businesses working tirelessly to make a difference in their communities. Sage is proud to celebrate the businesses behind the badge who consistently support their communities and the Clubs they love.”
Monarch Mortgages, Prime Time Plumbing (Bradford, Sky Bet League One) and Chris' Fish and Chips (Leicester City, Sky Bet Championship) were chosen as grand prize winners from thousands of entries across the country. In total, 72 small businesses from 72 EFL clubs were recognised, each receiving match tickets and Sage products and tools to support their growth.
