ERIE, Pa.—The Erie Sports Commission is now accepting applications for its Facility Matching Funds Program, which provides grants to help improve local sports facilities and boost sports tourism.
The program offers a total of $75,000 in matching funds to support projects that enhance sports infrastructure, attract new sporting events or expand existing ones, and increase the region’s economic impact. Since the program began in 2018, more than $240,000 has been awarded to local facilities.
“Our goal is to continue supporting partner venues to build on our reputation as a leading destination for year-round sporting events,” says Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “We know how critical this funding is for venue operators to attract more events that help increase sports tourism for our community, while at the same time improving facilities for local use. We look forward to reviewing applications and awarding grants that strengthen Erie’s role as a top sports tourism destination.”
Eligible applicants must be located in Erie County and operate facilities capable of hosting tournaments or expanding existing events that draw out-of-town participants. Applicants may request matching funds of up to $15,000, with larger requests considered in rare circumstances.
Applications must be submitted by March 31. Past recipients of the grants include ASCEND Climbing, Erie Insurance Fields at McKean, Lake Erie Speedway, Lake Shore BMX, and Sinai Sports.
For more information about the program and to apply, visit https://www.eriesportscommission.com/about-us/facility-matching-funds/.
