McLaren Racing spotlights Australian non-profit DeadlyScience on the F1 race track

Australian not-for-profit DeadlyScience is bringing its mission to encourage STEM in Indigenous Australia to the Formula 1 race track with McLaren Racing and sponsor Smartsheet.

DeadlyScience works in remote Australian communities providing resources and mentoring to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to learn about science and technology.

The charity will take part in McLaren Racing sponsor Smartsheet’s initiative Sponsor X, to shine a light on the for-purpose organisation, raise awareness and raise money.

“Driving meaningful change requires serious commitment, bold action and a platform that anyone can use to make a difference. That’s why we launched Sponsor X,” said Mark Mader, CEO of Smartsheet.

As part of Smartsheet’s Sponsor X initiative, DeadlyScience logos will replace the Smartsheet logos during the Australian Grand Prix on all McLaren MCL36 race cars.

According to Corey Tutt, founder and CEO of DeadlyScience, “It means the world for Smartsheet to donate this sponsorship and believe in the important work we are doing. When the kids see DeadlyScience on the car, they’re going to know it represents them,” said Tutt.

SponsorX is the first initiative of its kind in Formula 1 racing history. Not only will logos be displayed on the cars, but the organisation will also receive spotlight posts on social media as well as Smartsheet software licenses, consultant hours and training at no cost, the company said.

According to Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, “Smartsheet has revolutionised how we do business, and now they are doing the same with how they are activating their sponsorship; its leading edge for Formula 1.

“McLaren is proud of the work DeadlyScience is doing to inspire a new generation of scientists. Sponsor X is a bold way of pursuing progress–an idea that resonates with everyone at McLaren.”

Smartsheet's Madar said social progress drives the organisation's key purpose.

“We are so impressed by the work Corey and DeadlyScience are doing with children all over Australia. They are a remarkable representation of the impact we hope to make when we use our voice and resources to amplify changemakers around the world," he said.