FIFA has announced small business management platform, Xero, as the latest partner of FIFA women’s football.

The multi-year deal will cover the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the 2024 and 2026 U-20 and U-17 tournaments, additionally, Xero will support women’s football and women in small business through various initiatives.

Additionally, Xero will also support women’s football initiatives: Capacity-Building for Administrators and Coach Education Scholarships.

Commenting on the deal, FIFA chief women’s football officer, Sarai Bareman, said: “We are thrilled to officially welcome Xero on board as a global FIFA Women’s Football Partner under our new commercial partnership structure, which will allow us to maximise support for the women’s game.”

“Not only is this a momentous day for women’s football globally, but as a proud New Zealander, I am so excited that FIFA is partnering with a company that was founded in New Zealand.

“This is a partnership that will accelerate the growing momentum behind women’s football and our ambition to make the game truly global.

“To have a brand on board that is so passionate about empowering women – and especially one from a co-host of the next FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 – is wonderful to see,” she said.

Xero chief customer officer, Rachael Powell, added: “For women’s football to thrive, the financial viability of clubs at all levels is essential to attract, develop and nurture talent.”

“Put simply, we believe that better numbers off the field will deliver better numbers on the field.

“Together, Xero and FIFA share many goals and important values, driven by a passion and purpose to foster participation and community connections.

“This global partnership not only gives us a platform for brand visibility around the world, it also provides a fabulous opportunity to create deeper relationships with small businesses and communities that support the growth of the women’s game,” she said.

The announcement comes after the record-breaking crowd at the Women’s Champions League semi-final between Barcelona and Real Madrid.