term:

Sponsor

sponsor n

1 : a legislator who introduces and supports a legislative proposal (as a bill or amendment)
2 : a person who assumes responsibility for some other person (as an immigrant) or thing
3 a : one that securitizes assets
b : one that promotes, advocates, or favors a business venture (as investment in a security or limited partnership)
sponsor vb

spon·sor·ship n

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.