The Sports Event Funding (SEF) Program provides financial assistance of up to $75,000 in the form of a grant or loan to support major sporting events that provide significant economic impact to Allegheny County. Eligible events include athletic or Esports events, whether professional or amateur, regulated and sanctioned by a regional, national, or international organization. Applications will be evaluated based on the event's impact on the Allegheny County economy, potential to attract visitors from outside Western Pennsylvania, high-value exposure to the region, financial need and level of private investment, event quality and readiness, diversity, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. The application process is available through an online portal with deadlines approximately on January 15 and July 15.
Eligible expenses for funding include payments to vendors, advertising, marketing, venue rental or expense, equipment rental, promotional materials, production costs, and fees for officiants. Ineligible expenses include travel costs, solicitation efforts, lobbying fees, meals not on event dates as described in the application. Upon approval for funding by the SEA Board of Directors, a notification letter followed by a grant agreement will be issued explaining the terms and conditions of the financial assistance. The grant agreement will contain requirements for insurance and event budgets.
