- Office of Travel and Tourism
Media Contact
Abigail Phillips, Director of Communications
BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $283,000 in grant awards to 10 organizations and municipalities through the Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program to support public safety costs associated with FIFA World Cup 2026 watch parties across Massachusetts.
The Sports and Entertainment Events Fund, administered by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, supports major global events that drive economic growth, tourism, and statewide engagement. In March 2026, the administration awarded $10 million to 17 communities and organizations through the first round of funding to support World Cup watch parties and fan events, and a second round in May to support municipal public safety needs tied to the World Cup. This third round builds on those investments to help communities deliver safe, welcoming, and memorable experiences for residents and visitors.
“Massachusetts is continuing to prepare for one of the biggest global events our state has ever hosted, and communities across the state are doing the work now to make sure residents and visitors have a safe, welcoming and successful experience during the FIFA World Cup,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This third round of funding will help cities and towns strengthen public safety planning, support local teams on the ground, and create vibrant watch parties and events that showcase Massachusetts to the world while supporting local businesses, restaurants and downtowns.”
“Hosting an event of this scale takes real coordination and partnership at every level,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Communities across Massachusetts have been planning for months alongside public safety officials, local organizations and state partners, and these grants will help support the staffing, logistics and operations needed to deliver safe and memorable experiences throughout the World Cup.”
This third round of funding focuses on supporting public safety expenses related to FIFA World Cup 2026 watch parties that previously received funding through the first round of the Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program. Eligible expenses include police, fire, emergency medical services, emergency management, traffic coordination, public works support, and related operational needs.
“The FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for communities across Massachusetts to welcome visitors, showcase what makes them special, and generate economic activity for local businesses,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “These grants are helping communities prepare for that moment by supporting the public safety and operational needs that make great events possible. We want residents and visitors alike to have a safe, memorable experience this summer and leave with a strong impression of Massachusetts.”
“This summer will bring visitors into communities across Massachusetts, and these investments are helping make sure events are safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone experiencing this exciting season of soccer and celebration throughout the state” said Kate Fox, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism.
The following organizations have been awarded funding:
| Awardee | Event or Activity | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| City of Brockton | Public Safety Support for City of Brockton Watch Parties | $50,000 |
| City of Cambridge | Public Safety Support for City of Cambridge Watch Parties | $26,000 |
| City of Chelsea | Public Safety Support for City of Chelsea Watch Parties | $40,000 |
| City of Everett | Public Safety for City of Everett Watch Party | $5,000 |
| City of Worcester | Public Safety to City of Worcester Watch Parties | $18,000 |
| Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association | Public Safety Support for Youth Watch Parties in Ten Cities and Towns | $22,000 |
| MetroWest Tourism and Visitors Bureau | Public Safety Support for Watch Parties in Franklin and Marlborough | $50,000 |
| Revolutionary Valley Regional Tourism Council | Public Safety Support for Lowell Watch Parties | $55,000 |
| Town of Burlington | Public Safety Support for Town of Burlington Watch Parties | $2,000 |
| Town of Lexington | Public Safety Support for Town of Lexington Watch Parties | $15,000 |
To learn more about the Sports and Entertainment Fund Grant program, visit mass.gov. To learn more about World Cup events, visit www.visitma.com/soccer.
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