Sponsor (genus)
WordNet
noun
(1) Someone who supports or champions something
(2) An advocate who presents a person (as for an award or a degree or an introduction etc.)
verb
(3) Assume sponsorship of
(4) Assume responsibility for or leadership of
"The senator announced that he would sponsor the health care plan"
(5) Do one's shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of