New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the official launch of the “World Cup Community Grant Program”, which aims to support local communities in hosting public viewing events for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing communities across the state to participate in this globally anticipated sports event.
The state government stated that the program is designed to support community-led celebratory events, expanding opportunities for people to engage with the World Cup games, reaching beyond just residents near the competition venues to encompass various regions of New York State. The aim is to enable more residents to come together, interact, and experience the international atmosphere brought about by the World Cup within their local communities.
Governor Hochul emphasized that New York State will play a crucial hosting role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and she hopes to ensure that all communities can share in this grand event. She stated that the new program will extend the spirit of the tournament to towns and cities across the state, fostering community cohesion.
Hope Knight, the director of the New York State Economic Development Department (ESD) responsible for implementing the program, mentioned that hosting the World Cup presents a rare generational opportunity. By supporting local public viewing events, not only does it enhance community interactions but also aids in bolstering small businesses while showcasing the distinctive characteristics and cultures of various regions.
According to the plan, grants will prioritize supporting public viewing events held in areas like Albany and other upper regions of New York State. As for the Long Island and Mid-Hudson regions, the state government stated that further plans will be announced later. Additionally, the state government will collaborate with the New York and New Jersey World Cup Organizing Committee to host official fan activities in New York City.
Eligible applicants for grants include local governments, nonprofit organizations, and tourism promotion agencies. Applicants must submit their applications to the state government and the regional economic development commissions through the “Consolidated Funding Application” system based on the location of the event. Link: [https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/index.cfm](“https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/index.cfm”)
The deadline for applications is 4:00 PM on February 13th of this year (Eastern Time). For more information about the program and application process, visit the website of the New York State Economic Development Department or the state government grant application platform. Details link: [https://tinyurl.com/tuc7j34p](“https://tinyurl.com/tuc7j34p”)