ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) and Royal Banks of Missouri announced today a multi-year expansion of their existing partnership, highlighted by Royal Banks of Missouri becoming a Presenting Sponsor of Arch Madness, the Conference's premier basketball championship event. The expanded agreement further strengthens the bank's relationship with the MVC through its designation as the Official Deposit Partner of the Conference and an enhanced commitment to community engagement initiatives surrounding Arch Madness.
The expanded partnership comes at a historic time for the Missouri Valley Conference, as the league prepares to bring its men's and women's basketball championships together in St. Louis for the first time in 2027. The combined championship experience will feature 18 games over five days, March 3-7, at Enterprise Center, creating additional opportunities for corporate partners, fans and community organizations to engage with The Valley.
As a presenting sponsor of the 2027 Arch Madness championships, Royal Banks of Missouri will receive an expanded presence throughout the tournament, including in-arena signage, digital and broadcast advertising, and fan engagement opportunities. The partnership will also feature Royal Banks across MVC men's and women's basketball broadcasts and Conference programming throughout the regular season.
“We are delighted to deepen our partnership with Royal Banks of Missouri,” stated Jeff Jackson, Commissioner of the Missouri Valley Conference. “Royal Banks initially embraced Arch Madness with its Field Trip Madness sponsorship, and this agreement marks a significant advancement in our relationship. Their dedication to our championships, student-athletes, and the St. Louis community reflects the core values of the Missouri Valley Conference. We anticipate further strengthening this collaboration in the years ahead.”
As part of the expanded agreement, Royal Banks of Missouri will provide banking and deposit services to support the Conference's financial operations while significantly increasing its presence across MVC basketball programming and championship events. The agreement builds upon the organizations' existing relationship and shared commitment to supporting collegiate athletics and the St. Louis community.
Royal Banks of Missouri will continue as the presenting sponsor of Field Trip Madness, a community engagement initiative that provides elementary school students and teachers with an affordable opportunity to experience collegiate basketball at Enterprise Center. The 2027 program will feature afternoon sessions on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, expanding opportunities for area schools to participate in the excitement of Arch Madness.
Field Trip Madness introduces students to collegiate athletics while incorporating educational opportunities focused on teamwork, physical fitness, wellness and financial literacy. Through Royal Banks' continued support, the program will remain an important component of the Conference's efforts to connect with young students and educators throughout the St. Louis region.
In addition to Field Trip Madness, the MVC and Royal Banks of Missouri plan to introduce a community food drive during the 2027 championships, with the St. Louis Area Foodbank identified as the anticipated beneficiary. The initiative will provide fans and attendees with an opportunity to support local families facing food insecurity while reinforcing both organizations' commitment to community service.
"The Missouri Valley Conference and Arch Madness have long been an important part of the St. Louis community, and we are proud to expand our relationship with an organization that shares our values," said Mitch Baden, President and CEO of Royal Banks of Missouri. "Becoming the Official Deposit Partner of the MVC is a natural extension of our partnership. From introducing young students to college athletics through Field Trip Madness to supporting families in need through our community food drive, we are excited to make a lasting impact both on and off the court."
Additional details regarding Field Trip Madness registration and the community food drive will be announced in the coming months.
About the Missouri Valley Conference
The Missouri Valley Conference, the nation's second-oldest NCAA Division I conference, continues to be a leader in college athletics and one of the nation's most tradition-rich conferences. Founded in 1907, the MVC has established a strong reputation for athletic excellence, academic achievement and competitive success. The Conference remains committed to providing outstanding championship experiences for its student-athletes while strengthening relationships with corporate partners and communities throughout its geographic footprint.
About Royal Banks of Missouri
Royal Banks of Missouri is a full-service, independent community bank offering a wide variety of financial products and services to consumer and commercial clients. Locally owned and operated in St. Louis, Royal Banks of Missouri has served its communities since 1964, providing personalized banking solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to community investment and local relationships. For more information, visit royalbanksofmo.com.