Friday, September 17 was a day of celebration in Inglewood, as construction of the LA Clippers’ new 18,000-seat arena has officially broken ground near SoFi Stadium. Friday’s event celebrating the NBA team’s big-time move to Inglewood consisted of live music, a digital sneak peek of the finished product– which is set to be complete by the 2024-2025 NBA season, and VIP speakers such as Clippers Chairman Steve Ballmer, head coach Tyronn Lue, and Inglewood Mayor James Butts.
“You all, fans and players together, you deserve the ultimate home court. It doesn’t feel like home court sometimes in our building, today. But you’re going to have it here in Inglewood,” said Ballmer to the zealous audience.
Ballmer also announced his partnership with Intuit Inc., a financial software company that also makes TurboTax, QuickBooks, Credit Karma, and Mint. The 23-year partnership makes Intuit the exclusive naming rights partner of the “Intuit Dome”, home of the Los Angeles Clippers.
According to a statement released by the LA Clippers, the Intuit Dome will become a hub for programs that power economic prosperity and benefit the Inglewood community.
“When we began the search for a partner for the LA Clippers and our new dome, we looked for one that shares our passion for technology, the pursuit of innovation, and our commitment to customers, fans, and the community,” said Ballmer.
Intuit has already committed to contributing $1 million over the next three years to underserved school districts that are part of their Prosperity Hub School District program, which is Intuit’s financial literacy initiative geared toward young scholars. Intuit is currently working to expand the program in the Los Angeles area.
Intuit is also committed to providing taxpayer assistance events, which will help families in the area to prepare and file taxes, free of charge, during tax season. Additionally, Intuit will host educational events for local business owners and entrepreneurs.
The LA Clippers and Intuit partnership will bring the city of Inglewood an estimated $260 million in annual economic activity.