About MATE

who we are

Born in Argentina, raised in India. We use football to open doors, build confidence, and create real opportunities for kids in their communities.

See our impact
Our story

Born in Argentina, raised in India.

MATE Foundation was started by lifelong football fans Matías Gainza Eurnekian and Cristian Calandria— inspired by Argentina's deep football culture and the belief that sport can transform lives.

What started as a shared idea grew into a social initiative built around one thing: creating opportunities for young people through football.

With Federal Card Services as our main sponsor, the Foundation launched its first programs in India — and keeps growing through partnerships with schools and communities.

MATE Foundation in the community
Mission & vision

What we're playing for.

MATE Foundation in the community

Our mission

We use football to build confidence, foster inclusion, and open real doors for young people. Sport is how communities grow stronger — and how kids grow into themselves.

Our vision

A world where every child has access to sport. From the streets of Buenos Aires to the pitches of Mumbai — football builds bridges between cultures and between people.

How it started

Founded by lifelong football fans Matías Gainza Eurnekian and Cristian Calandria, MATE drew on Argentina's deep football culture to launch its first programs in India — backed by Federal Card Services. It keeps growing through school and community partnerships.

Inclusion, Commitment, Teamwork, Respect, Meritocracy
Kids after a MATE session
Football opens doors. Our job is to make sure those doors stay open — for every kid, every week, in every community we work with.
MATE Foundation
Play for something bigger

Help us reach more kids.

Partners, mentors, and donors — your contribution puts one more kid on the pitch.

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