HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has unveiled a $5 million investment aimed at supporting eleven major sporting events across the state. This initiative, under the Sports Marketing and Tourism Program, is projected to inject approximately $240.2 million into Pennsylvania’s economy, drawing visitors and invigorating local businesses.
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the transformative potential of hosting renowned national and international sporting events. “Over the next couple of years, our Commonwealth is going to host some of the biggest and best sporting events in the world – and folks will see why Pennsylvania has the greatest fans, franchises, and sports,” Shapiro remarked. He underlined Pennsylvania’s appeal as a premier destination, boasting top-tier sports, historic sites, and natural attractions that promise to captivate visitors.
The Sports Marketing and Tourism Program, spearheaded by the DCED, is designed to attract high-profile amateur and professional sports events. This approach capitalizes on tourism influxes associated with such events, which elevate sales for local enterprises and stimulate economic activity. Secretary Rick Siger noted the strategic importance of these events, stating, “With 72 million people within a four-hour drive of Pennsylvania, our investments in top tier sporting events in the coming years will generate a significant boost for our regional and statewide economies.”
The funding will support a variety of events, each contributing uniquely to the state’s economic landscape. Highlights include a $1 million allocation to the United States Golf Association for the 2025 Men’s U.S. Open in Allegheny County, anticipated to generate $77.4 million and create 578 jobs. The 2025 Little League World Series and Major League Baseball Draft Game in Lycoming County will see a $750,000 investment, supporting over 2,000 jobs and contributing $2.2 million to the economy.
Philadelphia County will benefit from a $1.75 million investment for the 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, expected to support nearly 12,000 jobs and generate $42 million. Similarly, Delaware County will host the 2026 PGA Championship, bolstered by $900,000 in funding, with an expected economic impact of $130 million.
Tourism, a pivotal component of Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy, generates $76 billion annually and supports over 486,000 jobs in Pennsylvania. The Sports Marketing and Tourism Program exemplifies the administration’s commitment to fostering economic opportunities through strategic investments in premier sporting events.
The program’s impact extends beyond immediate economic gains, fostering long-term community engagement and enhancing Pennsylvania’s reputation as a leading sports destination. As Chris Barrett, President and CEO of Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, observed, “This investment from DCED will strengthen the Pocono Mountains’ economic position through direct and indirect spending and has real potential to create Pocono race fans for life.”
As Pennsylvania prepares to host these landmark events, the collaborative efforts between government entities, event organizers, and local communities are set to significantly reinforce the state’s economic and cultural fabric, promising enduring benefits for residents and visitors alike.
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