Boise State Athletics Receives Significant Gift from Sonner Family
Committing $2.5M investment to North End Zone Project
BOISE, Idaho – Boise State Athletics announced Eric and Christina Sonner have committed $2.5 million to support Boise State’s North End Zone Project. Their gift reflects a shared belief that thriving universities, championship athletic programs, and innovative businesses all play a critical role in strengthening communities and creating opportunities for future generations.
Eric Sonner is the founder and CEO of Data Airflow, a Boise-based engineering firm that has become one of the country’s leading experts in mechanical systems engineering for AI and high-performance computing data centers. What began as a specialized engineering company has evolved into a national leader supporting some of the largest and most sophisticated AI infrastructure projects in the United States. Earlier this year, Sonner was recognized as the 2026 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the Mountain West Region.
“We are incredibly grateful for Eric and Christina’s support of Boise State Athletics and the North End Zone Project,” said Boise State Director of Athletics Jeramiah Dickey. “Their investment in this community, and now in our Boise State student-athletes, reflects a belief in a shared vision to be elite! It takes a TEAM, and to have another Boise-based entrepreneur and family step up to support the Front Porch of Idaho is truly meaningful! We appreciate their generosity and thank them for being a part of Bronco Nation. What’s Next!”
For the Sonners, supporting Boise State is another way to invest in the place they call home.
“Boise has given our family and our business incredible opportunities,” said Eric and Christina Sonner. “As Data Airflow has grown across the country, we’ve remained committed to the community where it all began. Boise State is an important part of this region’s future, and we’re excited to support a project that will elevate the experience for student-athletes, fans, and strengthen Boise as a destination for innovation.”
The North End Zone Project will transform Albertsons Stadium with premium seating, expanded hospitality spaces and enhanced fan amenities while generating new revenue streams that position Boise State for sustained success in the Pac-12.
The Sonner family’s investment continues a growing wave of philanthropic support from Idaho business leaders who recognize Boise State Athletics as both an economic driver and a source of pride for the region. Their gift continues the momentum of Unbridled: The Campaign for Boise State University.
“Philanthropy is at the heart of what makes Boise State – and Idaho – such a wonderful place,” said Argia Beristain, CEO of the Boise State University Foundation. “The Sonners’ gift will have an immediate impact today and continued impact for generations to come. We are grateful for their vision, generosity, and genuine Bronco spirit.”
About Lyle Smith Society (LSS)
The LSS membership begins with a minimum pledge of $50,000 over a five-year period or donating an annual cash gift of $50,000 or more. Boise State Athletics establishes its top priorities, but LSS members have the flexibility to designate their gift to the fund of their choice. These funds include the Bronco Nation Fund, Women’s Sports Fund, Sports Enhancement Funds, Endowments, capital projects, BroncoLife and Sports Performance, Health, and Wellness. Visit Lyle Smith Society to help ensure the future of Boise State Athletics and leave a legacy as a member of Bronco Nation.
About the Boise State University Foundation
A nonprofit Idaho organization, the Boise State University Foundation was established in 1964 to empower Boise State University with the resources necessary to thrive. The Foundation provides fundraising leadership and service across the university and partners with donors and alumni to inspire private support. To learn more about the Foundation, visit https://www.boisestate.edu/giving/.
About Unbridled: The Campaign for Boise State University
From groundbreaking research to expanded opportunities for the best and brightest students, Unbridled: The Campaign for Boise State University advances key priorities at the university level and for each college, school, unit and Athletics to meet the unique challenges of our time. The Unbridled campaign focuses on three key pillars: student access and success, relentless faculty innovation and positioning athletics for what’s next. For more information on Unbridled: The Campaign for Boise State University, visit unbridled.boisestate.edu.
