Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Opens Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program

Boston — Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, in partnership with the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT), announced the opening of the Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program application portal. This competitive grant program will support major sports and entertainment events that drive tourism and economic activity across the Commonwealth.

The program was authorized through the Fiscal Year 2025 Supplemental Budget, which allocates $10 million to support costs associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including public safety, transportation, and celebrations. Massachusetts will host seven World Cup matches, including a Round of 32 and a quarterfinal, between June 13 and July 9, 2026.

“Massachusetts has a long history of hosting world-class sporting and cultural events, and this new fund positions us to lead the next chapter,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By creating this program, we are making a clear commitment to attract and support marquee events like the FIFA World Cup and the community experiences that surround them. This investment allows us to showcase Massachusetts’ sportsmanship, creativity, and vibrant communities to a global audience, while bringing people together, strengthening our economy, and welcoming the world to our state.”

“Bringing major events to Massachusetts, from this summer’s FIFA World Cup to last year’s International World Figure Skating Championships, requires strong coordination across state agencies, municipalities, and private partners,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This fund helps ensure communities have the infrastructure, communications, and operational support needed to successfully host and elevate events of this scale. By working collaboratively, we can deliver seamless experiences for visitors and ensure communities across Massachusetts share in the lasting benefits of hosting large-scale events.”

The program will evaluate applications based on return on investment, economic impact to the tourism sector, potential to promote Massachusetts nationally and internationally, and geographic equity across the state. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and municipalities. No single entity may receive more than half of the total funds available. Grantees must provide matching funds equal to or greater than the grant amount awarded.

“Sports and entertainment events are catalysts for broad economic growth,” said Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley. “This new fund gives Massachusetts a strategic, competitive tool to attract and support high-impact events that drive job creation, visitor spending, and long-term value for local businesses across the state. By making targeted investments like this, we are strengthening Massachusetts’ ability to compete on a global stage while delivering measurable economic benefits to communities statewide. We thank the Legislature for their support”

“Sports tourism introduces visitors to Massachusetts in a uniquely personal way, whether they are attending a global tournament, a community watch party, or a regional championship,” said Kate Fox, Executive Director at the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. “This fund helps us welcome visitors, elevate local destinations, and share the stories of the people and places that make Massachusetts special. These events create lasting connections and help raise the profile of communities across the state as destinations worth exploring.”

The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, March 4 at 3:00pm. Applicants can visit MOTT’s online application portal to review program guidelines and eligibility requirements, and to submit an application. An optional, informational webinar for potential applicants will be held on Wednesday, February 11 at 10:00am. Register here.  

The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism  

Massachusetts is made for nights on the town, days on the trails, and everything in between. The mission of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) is to promote Massachusetts as a four-season leisure and business travel destination for domestic and international travelers and contribute to the state’s economic growth. MOTT offers assistance with itinerary planning, familiarization trips, images, and photographs and offers support in providing information to the travel trade, press, and media. To plan your trip to Massachusetts, please go to visitma.com. 

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