FIFA Destination Marketing Grants

The Washington State Department of Commerce is soliciting proposals for FIFA Destination Marketing Grants to support communities preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with applications due July 17, 2026. Amendment 1, posted June 3, 2026, caps individual awards at $700,000 and establishes a total funding pool of approximately $700,000. Any application exceeding $700,000 will be rejected as non-responsive without evaluation.

Eligible applicants may propose destination planning, tourism readiness, community activation, and visitor engagement initiatives across Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, Chelan, and Yakima counties. The amendment specifies that approximately 10% of total funding ($100,000) is allocated for activities within King County; applicants must factor this allocation into budget planning. Allowable costs may be incurred retroactively to February 25, 2026.

The RFA evaluation criteria emphasize project feasibility, community impact, marketing effectiveness, and return on investment. Grant recipients must comply with state contracting regulations, reporting requirements, and performance metrics as outlined in award agreements. Selected projects are expected to commence upon grant award and continue through the duration of the World Cup event period. The number of awards depends on the quantity and quality of applications received. All contract awards are contingent upon funding availability. Additional funding may become available and could result in contract amendments for related services, though such additional funding is not guaranteed.