Governor Kathy Hochul announced on April 3 that twelve community-based projects in seven regions of New York State have been awarded grants through the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program. The initiative will provide more than $371,000 to support public viewing events and related programming tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The grant program aims to bring residents and visitors together while encouraging economic activity and increased visitation to local businesses. Governor Hochul said, “New York is proud to play a major role in hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and we want communities across the state to share in the excitement and the economic benefits this global event will bring. These grants will help cities, villages and local organizations host events that bring people together, support small businesses and ensure that New Yorkers in every region can take part in the celebration.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Community World Cup Grant Program helps extend the impact of the World Cup far beyond the host stadium by empowering local communities to create their own celebrations around the tournament. These events will drive foot traffic to local businesses, strengthen regional tourism and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
Justin Brannan, Governor’s Senior Director of Major Event Operations, said that thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership “communities from Buffalo to Binghamton will be able to share in the World Cup excitement,” creating lasting economic and cultural benefits.
The $500,000 Community World Cup Grant Program supports activities such as public watch parties, cultural programming, and festivals timed with tournament matches. Awardees include Discover Albany ($29,825), Downtown Troy Business Improvement District ($70,000), Visit Syracuse ($25,000), Visit Rochester – East & Alex Entertainment District ($24,875), Visit Rochester – High Falls ($22,000), City of Binghamton ($25,000), City of Amsterdam ($12,125), Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism Southern Essex ($7,500), Potsdam Chamber of Commerce ($20,000), City of Buffalo ($60,000), Visit Buffalo ($70,000) and Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI) ($5,000).
Additional initiatives include large-scale free viewing events on Long Island and in Mid-Hudson Region featuring live match broadcasts alongside community-developed programming. Details about these events are expected at a later date.
Governor Hochul has also advanced NY Kicks as part of her recent budget proposals—a new effort focused on expanding youth soccer access by investing in new facilities within disadvantaged communities. This complements her Get Offline Get Outside initiative which encourages outdoor family activities.
These efforts form part of a broader strategy by Empire State Development—the state’s chief economic development agency—to maximize economic growth linked with hosting FIFA tournament matches.