NEW JERSEY – Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced the June 1 launch of the Welcome World Rewards Program, a statewide initiative tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ designed to encourage residents and visitors to support local businesses and community events across New Jersey.
Sherrill joined Assemblywoman Ellen Park and representatives from the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee at The Chapped Cheese in Hackensack to unveil the digital rewards platform during National Small Business Month.
The program allows participants to earn points by visiting participating small businesses and attending World Cup-related community events throughout New Jersey during the tournament. Points can later be redeemed for prizes and experiences.
“The FIFA World Cup is an opportunity to showcase everything that makes New Jersey special — our communities, our culture, and our small businesses,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “The Welcome World Rewards Program gives residents and visitors a fun, interactive way to experience the tournament beyond the stadium while supporting local businesses across our state. By connecting this platform with community watch parties and neighborhood events, we’re creating more opportunities for New Jerseyans and tourists alike to participate in this historic moment.”
The rewards initiative complements New Jersey’s broader $5 million NJ World Cup Community Initiative, a statewide effort involving the Governor’s Office, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Choose New Jersey and the NYNJ Host Committee to support local watch parties, cultural events and community celebrations in all 21 counties during the World Cup.
Assemblywoman Ellen Park highlighted the importance of local businesses and cultural representation as the state prepares to welcome international visitors.
“AAPI Month is all about celebrating the contributions of our community and uplifting the importance and value of representation. It tells our children that anything is possible and ensures everyone’s voices are heard in the halls of power,” said Assemblywoman Ellen Park. “As sports fans flock to New Jersey from all around the world later this summer, our AAPI-owned restaurants not only offer community members a taste of home. They also invite spectators and locals alike to join in trying diverse food and, in turn, gaining a greater respect for our cultures. Our small businesses are at the heart of this, and truly at the heart of what makes New Jersey such a special place to live and raise a family.”
NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry said the program is intended to extend the World Cup atmosphere into communities across the state.
“The World Cup experience should extend far beyond matchday and we’re grateful to Governor Sherrill for her leadership in helping bring that vision to communities across New Jersey,” said NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry. “The Welcome World Rewards Program encourages fans to explore New Jersey communities, support local businesses, and experience the incredible energy building across our region during the tournament. Whether you’re attending a community watch party, grabbing a meal at a neighborhood restaurant, or discovering a new downtown, every interaction becomes part of the World Cup experience.”
Officials said participants who reach specific milestones during the tournament may become eligible for prizes including tickets to FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, concerts at MetLife Stadium and SI Stadium, local sporting events, merchandise and official fan experiences.
Additional information and registration details for the Welcome World Rewards Program are available through the NYNJ Host Committee.
