Pennsylvania is preparing local governments and state agencies for large upcoming events tied to the NFL Draft, the PGA Championship, the FIFA World Cup, America250PA and the MLB All-Star Game. The commonwealth is deploying nearly $40 million in grants through its $50 million Marketing to Attract Marquee Events (MTAME) program to support large-scale sporting, cultural and tourism events expected to draw visitors from around the world.
The program, branded as PA Playmakers, was launched by the governor on April 2, 2026. Originally established by the legislature in 2018, MTAME received its current funding through the 2025 state budget to help attract and support high-profile events.
Tourism and economic development officials point to a lineup of major events—including the NFL Draft, PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, America250PA and the MLB All-Star Game—as starting points for increased visitation and longer-term tourism growth, culminating in celebrations tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Combined with broader visitor spending, these events are expected to generate tens of billions of dollars in economic activity.
Eligible applicants for this round include businesses, nonprofit organizations, industry associations, commissions and municipalities. Funds may be used for a wide range of event-related needs, including logistics, site preparation, security, transportation systems, marketing, talent booking and production.
Among the largest allocations, FIFA World Cup matches in Philadelphia are set to receive $12.38 million. The city will host six matches from June 11–19, with funding supporting fan zones, concessions and other visitor-focused amenities as organizers prepare for significant international attendance.
Additional major awards include $10 million for the NFL Draft, $3.5 million for the MLB All-Star Game and $900,000 for the PGA Championship, each aimed at enhancing event execution and expanding visitor engagement.
Beyond sports, funding will support a range of cultural and historical initiatives, including statewide concert programming, trail development, public art installations and commemorative events tied to Pennsylvania’s role in American history. The city of Philadelphia will also receive $10 million to enhance security efforts during what officials anticipate will be an exceptionally busy tourism period.
With planning already underway for multiple large-scale events, the MTAME awards are expected to translate quickly into procurement activity, subcontracting opportunities and vendor demand across host communities, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 event season.
Photo by Trev W. Adams from Pexels
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