Austin FC and Q2 Holdings, Inc. announced today the launch of the 2026 Austin FC Dream Starter Competition, presented by Q2. The sixth annual business initiative invites Austin entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups to apply and compete for $100,000 in “Dream Starter” funds to accelerate their entrepreneurial venture. The online application is now open to eligible entities and will close on Monday, April 13, at 11:59 pm. The winning venture will be announced on Thursday, May 28.

“We’re proud to officially kickoff the Dream Starter competition for what will be the sixth consecutive year of a program that provides direct funding to an aspiring business within our community,” said Austin FC President Andy Loughnane. “This initiative remains one of the most impactful outcomes of our partnership with Q2, and we’re very grateful for their collaboration in making it a success each season.”

“We are proud to partner with Austin FC again this year to support underrepresented local entrepreneurs through the annual Dream Starter Competition,” said Q2 Chairman, President and CEO Matt Flake. “This commitment reflects Q2’s mission to build strong and diverse communities, and we are excited to help this year’s winning venture expand its...