New York State Community World Cup Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
What is the goal of this program?
The goal is to support community viewing events across New York State so residents and visitors can experience the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup close to home, while highlighting each region’s unique character.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include municipalities, county or regional tourism organizations, chambers of commerce, and other qualified nonprofit or regional entities.
What type of event is expected?
Each funded project should include at least one public viewing of a FIFA World Cup match. The events must be free. Events may also include complementary fan activities, entertainment, or community programming at a scale appropriate to the region.
Are World Cup viewing events planned for regions not included in this grant program?
In addition to the Community World Cup Grant Program, New York State is planning official, state-led World Cup viewing experiences, including large-scale public events on Long Island and in the Mid-Hudson Region. More information is available here.
FUNDING & COSTS
Is this a grant or a reimbursement?
This is a reimbursement based program. Funding is provided on a cost share basis to reimburse a portion of eligible event expenses, subject to the terms outlined in the award agreement.
How much funding is available per region?
Awards are intended to offset a portion of total eligible costs. The typical total cost of a regional viewing event is approximately $100,000, though this may vary based on location and scope.
Are applicants required to provide matching funds?
Applicants are expected to contribute toward the total cost of the event. This may include cash contributions, in kind support, or sponsorships.
SPONSORSHIPS & PARTNERSHIPS
Are sponsorships required?
No. Sponsorships are optional. Applicants may include sponsorships or partnerships if they are part of the event plan, but proposals will not be penalized for having none.
Can events have sponsors?
Yes. Local or regional sponsorships and partnerships are permitted, provided they comply with FIFA public viewing rules and State guidance. Sponsors can be FIFA Commercial sponsors. Local businesses that do not compete with FIFA Commercial sponsors may also be eligible to sponsor your event.
What types of sponsorships are acceptable?
Acceptable sponsorships may include local businesses, regional partners, or in kind support such as services, equipment, or promotion. Commercial activity must remain secondary to the public viewing experience.
FIFA PUBLIC VIEWING & COMPLIANCE
Do applicants need to secure FIFA public viewing rights?
No. The State will coordinate public viewing permissions for approved events.
Are there restrictions on commercial activity?
Yes. FIFA public viewing rules limit certain commercial activities. Approved applicants will receive guidance to ensure compliance.
EVENT PLANNING & OPERATIONS
Does the State produce or staff the event?
No. Each region is responsible for planning and delivering its own event, including staffing, permits, and operations. The State may support participation by State agencies that wish to provide public information or services at the event. Agencies will coordinate directly with the region, will require a designated space for their presence, and will cover the cost of any materials or elements they choose to include. The State will also provide guidance, templates, and coordination support.
What types of venues are acceptable?
Events may take place in parks, plazas, campuses, or other appropriate public or private spaces that can safely accommodate attendees.
Are youth and family activities encouraged?
Yes. Youth soccer, family friendly programming, and community engagement elements are encouraged but not required.
PROMOTION & BRANDING
Will the State promote regional events?
Yes. Approved events will be included in statewide calendars and promoted through I LOVE NY and Empire State Development channels, subject to coordination and approvals.
Will branding assets be provided?
Yes. Approved applicants will receive branding guidance and templates to ensure consistency.
APPLICATION & REVIEW
How will applications be evaluated?
Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with program goals, readiness to execute, feasibility, and anticipated community and regional impact.
Do applicants need to have every detail finalized at submission?
No. Applicants should demonstrate readiness and a clear plan, but some details may be refined after award, in coordination with the State.
Will simpler events be disadvantaged?
No. Events will be evaluated based on appropriateness to scale, clarity, and feasibility, not size or complexity.
AFTER THE EVENT
What reporting is required?
Awardees will be required to submit documentation of eligible expenses, basic attendance estimates, and limited post event information as outlined in the award agreement.
How will results be used?
Results will inform a statewide summary of New York’s World Cup community engagement efforts.