Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grants

The FY26 Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grants, administered by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT), is a competitive funding initiative designed to support major sports and entertainment events across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. With $10 million in available funding, this program was established through Chapter 73 of the Acts of 2025 and is strategically aligned to enhance the 2026 FIFA World Cup experience, which will feature seven matches in Massachusetts, including a Round of 32 and a quarterfinal. The fund aims to bolster the tourism industry, generate economic activity, and ensure community participation and benefit through local celebrations such as watch parties and fan festivals. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, and nonprofit organizations (501(c)3, 501(c)4, 501(c)5, or 501(c)6) that are incorporated in Massachusetts. All applicants must have been operational before January 1, 2025, be in good standing with both the Commonwealth and their local municipality, and be current on taxes as of December 31, 2024. For-profit entities, public colleges, universities, and state agencies are ineligible. Each applicant must act as a lead and may collaborate with partner organizations. Only one application is allowed per applicant. Funding may be used for a variety of expenses related to hosting and enhancing events, including transportation, public safety, signage, accessibility services, sustainability efforts, volunteer support, sports marketing, and event services. Ineligible uses include salaries unrelated to the grant activities, rent, prize money, legal fees, and expenditures outside the grant period. Notably, events like watch parties must showcase at least one match from the Boston Stadium and adhere to FIFA branding and intellectual property standards. A 1:1 matching funds requirement is mandatory. The grant recipient must contribute an amount equal to or greater than the awarded funds through cash, in-kind contributions, municipal funding, or consultant donations. The deadline for raising and expending matching funds is August 31, 2026. Funds will be disbursed on a cost-reimbursement basis upon submission of validated expenditures. Noncompliance with the matching requirement may result in repayment obligations. Applications will be evaluated based on several weighted criteria: viability (35%), economic impact and need (35%), clarity and vision (20%), and geographic equity/state priorities (10%). Successful proposals will present a clear budget and timeline, secure necessary permits and local support, demonstrate a strong return on investment, and articulate measurable outcomes. Additional credit will be given for projects that promote equity, accessibility, and sustainability or commemorate events such as the 250th anniversary of American Independence. The online application must be submitted by March 4, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET via the Submittable portal. An optional webinar will be held on February 11, 2026, and questions may be submitted until February 23. Anticipated grant notifications are expected in March 2026. All awarded funds and match expenditures must be completed by August 31, 2026, with a final report due by September 30, 2026. Throughout the grant lifecycle, recipients may be required to attend progress meetings and incorporate Commonwealth branding in all promotional materials. MOTT, in conjunction with the Executive Office of Economic Development, will oversee grant management and compliance.