No current state-level major event funding. Previously had a Major Events Fund with $7.5M annual allocation was repealed in 2023. Does have a Special Sporting Events Fund that is utilized for auto racing events.
ContributePreviously had Major Events Fund with $7,500,000 annual allocation - repealed in 2023. Does have Special Sporting Events Fund - $1,500,000 annual fund established in 2021 for auto racing events.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding, but state groups are actively working to build support for future legislation.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding. Previously had the Meetings and Events Incentive Program, a $10M grant program established in 2021 to help the state recover from COVID-19 (ended in 2024).
ContributePreviously had the Meetings and Events Incentive Program, a $10,000,000 grant program established in 2021 to help the state recover from COVID (ended in 2024).
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding.
ContributeCreated in 2024, Delaware's Tournaments, Events, and Athletic Meets Sponsorships (TEAMS) program is one of the newest state-level funds. Its $500,000 annual allocation provides support to a wide range of sporting events across the state.
ContributeFund Name: Tournaments, Events, and Athletic Meets Sponsorships (TEAMS) Program.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding
ContributeEstablished in 1996, the Florida Sports Foundation's Grant Program was the first state-level event fund in the United States. Although it is no longer one of the largest funds, it is still widely respected for its longevity, detailed guidelines, and the fact it benefits from a unique license plate program.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding. Legislation to create a Major Sporting Event Reimbursement Fund failed to pass the Georgia House of Representatives in 2020. In 2025, multiple attempts to pass legislation legalizing sports betting within the state of Georgia failed. Lawmakers are now attempting to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot (latest attempt was discussed in March 2025).
ContributeDeveloped to showcase Hawaii's rich sports history and unique assets on a global state, the Sports Brand Marketing Program provides tremendous value to the state by partnering with prestigious sports organizations and championship-level events.
ContributeOne of the newest state-level funds, Illinois' Tourism Incentive Grant Program began in 2024 and has a $15M annual allocation. Numerous cities and CVBs have benefited from this new funding stream with awards ranging from $250,000 to $5M.
ContributeFunded with a $10M biennial allocation, Indiana's Sport and Tourism Bid Fund was established in 2022 as the state sought to become more competitive on the national and international sports stage. At least 30% of the allocated funds must be used for events taking place outside of Marion County.
ContributeIowa's Sport Tourism Program was created in 2021 and supports amateur, collegiate, and professional sporting events across the state with a maximum award of $500,000.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding, but legislation to create a Sports Tourism Grant Fund was introduced in 2025 and is currently under consideration.
ContributeLegislation to create Sports Tourism Grant Fund has been introduced (HB 2346). Next hearing is 3-11-25. Would have annual allocation of $3,575,000. Max award of $150,000.
ContributeEstablished in 2016, Louisiana's Major Events Incentive Program has helped fund several high-profile sporting events in recent years through a dedicated grant-based process. Annual funding varies but is typically in the $4M to $5M range. However, the state frequently provides additional (and substantial) one-time funding if needed to land events such as the Super Bowl or Men's Final Four.
ContributeVaries, typically $4,000,000 to $5,000,000 but $14,500,000 was transferred to the fund in 2024 (to assist Super Bowl Host Committee)
ContributeOne of the top state-level funds from a total allocation perspective, Maryland's Sports and Entertainment Event Program Fund dedicates $10M per year to recruiting major events to the state.
ContributeThis unique fund was created in 2018 with the goal of enhancing infrastructure and events within the 36-county area of northern Michigan. This financial support assists the Great Lakes Sports Commission in their efforts to attract national and international sporting events.
ContributeTotal Allocation: $30,000,000 combined (allocations from two FY)
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding. Bipartisan legislation that would have allocated $50M in one-time funding to attract major sporting events to the state did not pass during the 2023-34 legislative session.
ContributeBipartisan legislation that would have allocated $50,000,000 in one-time funding to attract major sporting events to the state did not pass during the 2023-24 legislative session.
ContributeThe Missouri Amateur Sporting Tax Credits Program is a unique fund that competitively recruits amateur sporting events to the state. Annual funding is capped at $3M and a 10% of this allocation must be distributed to applicants outside of the major metro areas.
ContributeAdministered by the Nebraska Tourism Commission, the Community Impact Grant Program provides financial aid to communities across the state who bid for (and ultimately host) national or international-caliber events.
ContributeNo current state-level major event funding, but the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has allocated millions of dollars in recent years to secure bids for high-profile sporting events.
ContributeIn addition to providing financial support for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup matches to be held at MetLife Stadium (including the World Cup Final), New Jersey's International Events, Improvements, and Attractions Fund has been used to provide funding for a variety of sporting events including the NHL Stadium Series, UFC fights, and WWE matches.
ContributeVaries, one-time allocations have ranged from $7,000,000 to $30,000,000
ContributeIntroduced in 2023, the Tourism Event Growth and Sustainability Program provides event support in the form of sponsorship, cooperative advertising, or an event accelerator.
ContributeWhile not generally used for sporting events, this fund exists to support tourism marketing initiatives, fund infrastructure projects, or recruit/host special events (including athletic competitions).
ContributeCreated in 2023 as a result of sports wagering legislation, North Carolina's Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund provides grants to promote the attraction of major events to the state. To qualify, a major event must be held no more than once per year at a sports facility or be sponsored by NASCAR, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, LPGA, or the USGA.
ContributeDependent upon gaming tax revenue; likely $40,000,000 in 2025
ContributeOhio's Major Sporting Event Grant is funded biennally for the purpose of attracting major sporting events to the state. Funding is calculated using tax reciepts and qualifying costs with a maximum event award of $2M.
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