Columbus insuretech firm Bold Penguin has inked its second national pro sports sponsorship, with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The NFL team named the Columbus software maker its "Official Commercial Insurance Technology Partner." The deal does not include any appearances on team uniforms, but a presence in Paycor Stadium, a spokeswoman said. The partnership highlights the platform's aim to simplify commercial insurance for small businesses.
Bold Penguin, which was acquired by Wisconsin-based American Family Insurance in 2021, shortly afterward became the home helmet sponsor for the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins. That deal with fellow avians continues.
"We bring small commercial insurance carriers and agents together, empowering them as they work together to help small business owners protect what they have worked tirelessly to build," Bold Penguin COO Jim Struntz said in a news release. “Like the Cincinnati Bengals, Bold Penguin is committed to supporting and celebrating the Ohio community. This season, we can’t wait to see what bold moves the Bengals have in store."
Other Columbus sponsors for the team include Donatos as official pizza. Clothier Pursuit made custom jackets for a team awards program in 2021.
“We look forward to showcasing our community and small business support together as we welcome (Bold Penguin) to our growing sponsorship portfolio,” Lacy Ekert, the Bengals' chief partnership officer, said in the release.
In-state rival the Cleveland Browns defeated the visiting Bengals 24-3 in Sunday's season opener.
Bold Penguin operates independently within the AmFam umbrella. Agents used the platform to process more than $2 billion in commercial coverage premiums in 2022, according to its annual report.
It had announced plans to continue growth in Columbus and remotely. It's one of the tenants keeping office space at Chase Tower, 100 E. Broad St., as remote work increases office vacancies downtown.
Bold Penguin reported 86 full-time Ohio employees for 2022, according to the state Department of Development.
