TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Thursday announced a $5 million initiative to support fan events and community programming across New Jersey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The initiative, led by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority in partnership with the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee, will fund large-scale fan zones as well as smaller community watch parties, festivals and street fairs throughout the state.
“New Jersey is the beating heart of the 2026 World Cup, and this initiative makes sure that every New Jerseyan — no matter where they live — can be part of this once-in-a-generation moment,” said Governor Sherrill. “From fan zones to neighborhood watch parties to street fairs, we are investing in the communities and small businesses that make New Jersey extraordinary. The World Cup is coming to our state — and we are going to make sure it belongs to New Jerseyans first.”
Under the plan, the state will support major public viewing destinations strategically located around New Jersey, along with smaller, locally organized events designed to increase access and drive activity in neighborhoods statewide.
Officials said the initiative will prioritize high-impact events that benefit small businesses and reflect the cultural diversity of the state, including communities with ties to countries participating in the tournament.
“The World Cup is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase New Jersey to the world and drive real economic impact for our businesses and communities,” said Evan Weiss, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. “This initiative is about more than soccer — it’s about making sure that the energy and investment generated by this global event flows directly to the small businesses, cultural organizations, and neighborhood nonprofits that are the backbone of our state. We look forward to sharing the details of these funding opportunities and partnering with communities across New Jersey to make this a World Cup to remember.”
The program is being developed in collaboration with the NYNJ Host Committee, which is coordinating regional preparations for the tournament. The 2026 World Cup Final is scheduled to be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
“New Jersey will be at the center of the world’s biggest sporting event, and we have a responsibility to make sure its benefits are felt statewide,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee. “Governor Sherrill’s investment expands access, drives business activity in local communities, and ensures the World Cup delivers lasting economic impact across the state. This is exactly the kind of leadership and partnership that will make the World Cup transformative for this region.”
The initiative will be funded with previously appropriated fiscal year 2026 funds. Pending approval by the EDA board, additional details about funding opportunities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
