Politics & Government

$40M Awarded For Multiple Pittsburgh, PA Sporting & Entertainment Events

The state is providing large grants for significant sporting and entertainment events occurring this year in Pennsylvania.

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HARRISBURG, PA — Philadelphia and Pittsburgh will be the main recipients of $40 million in state funding under the state's Marketing to Attract Marquis Events (MTAME) program, Gov. Josh Shapiro's office announced on Thursday.

The program offers grants that can support operations, security, event infrastructure, shuttle and transportation systems, community engagement, programming, marketing, talent, and other essential costs related to executing the events.

MTAME funding includes $39.9 million that is being awarded to the following:

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  • $12.3 million to support the FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia.
  • $10 million to support the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
  • $10 million to support Philadelphia security.
  • $3.5 million to support Major League Baseball's All-Star game in Philadelphia.
  • $900,000 to support the PGA Championship in Bucks County.
  • $675,000 to support the Commonwealth Concert Series.
  • $639,300 to support the 9/11 Trail Extension in Somerset County.
  • $500,000 to support the Dennis Farm Museum in Susquehanna County.
  • $400,000 to support the TED Democracy Global Event in Philadelphia.
  • $330,000 to support Mural Arts Philadelphia.
  • $250,000 to support the Young People’s National Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
  • $200,000 to support Washington’s Crossing in Bucks County.
  • $125,000 to support the Battle of Gettysburg Commemoration in Adams County.
  • $20,000 to support the 100th Anniversary of Lake Wallenpaupack in Pike and Wayne counties.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be played between June 11 and July 19th with six matches slated for play in Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field stadium — renamed Philadelphia Stadium for the tournament — including a Round of 16 match on the 4th of July.

During select matches, Pennsylvania’s free fan zones will offer large-screen broadcasts of matches, live entertainment, interactive soccer fan experiences, and food and beverages.

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The fan zones will be located in Pittsburgh, Reading and Scranton.

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