New York State Allocates Grants to Boost Local 2026 World Cup Events
New York State has announced the allocation of over $371,000 in grants to support 12 community-based projects across seven regions in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Governor Kathy Hochul revealed that these grants are part of the state's Community World Cup Grant Program, which totals $500,000. The funding is intended to support public watch parties and related events that aim to attract both residents and visitors, thereby boosting local businesses. The selected projects will fund activities such as public viewing events of World Cup matches, community festivals, and cultural programming. The initiative is designed to expand the economic impact of the World Cup beyond the host venues, with projects spanning regions including the Capital Region, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Western New York. 
