The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has secured a record combined sponsorship of Sh273 million ahead of its 23rd edition, set for October 25, 2026, marking a 17% jump from last year’s Sh233 million and a 58% rise from the Sh173 million raised in 2024.

Standard Chartered has committed Sh130 million to the event, while its network of sponsors has contributed a further Sh143 million in cash and in-kind support.

The 2026 edition has also drawn a record 56 sponsors, up from 43 last year, a 30% increase reflecting what organisers describe as growing corporate appetite for purpose-driven sports sponsorship.

More than 30,000 runners representing 102 nationalities, including over 400 elite athletes, are expected to take part.

Among the major backers, Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has come on board as the 21km Half Marathon rights holder with a Sh10 million contribution; Tetra Pak (Sh13 million), Healthy U (Sh9.8 million) and ORS (Sh8.6 million) lead hydration and nutrition sponsorships, while Nike and Spiro debut as first-time sponsors, backing apparel and entertainment respectively.

David Mwindi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, said the investment goes beyond race-day logistics.

“This record Sh273 million investment reflects the shared commitment of Standard Chartered and our sponsors to delivering a world-class marathon with lasting impact,” he said, noting the funding also supports youth employability and skills programmes.

Standard Chartered’s Joyce Kibe added that the marathon’s real value lies beyond the numbers: “What matters is how people feel and what they remember.”

The race remains one of Standard Chartered’s top three flagship running events globally, out of ten held across four continents reaching roughly 250,000 runners worldwide.

Beyond title sponsors, dozens of other brands, including EABL, Unilever, Kenya Airways, Jambojet and Nation Media Group, are supporting categories ranging from transport and medical care to hospitality and media partnership.

Starting and finishing at Uhuru Gardens along the Southern Bypass, the event will feature the Full and Half Marathons, a 10km Road Race, Wheelchair Race, Family Fun Run, and corporate challenges.

Since its inception, the marathon has attracted more than 345,000 participants and raised approximately Sh520 million for youth, women’s and disability-focused development programmes through the Standard Chartered Foundation.