Could Your Business Use a Grant to Prepare for FIFA World Cup 26?

Are you a small business owner or a community-based organization that’s ready to score big during FIFA World Cup 26 Seattle?

Can you cover the cost of things like temporary staffing, watch parties, or extra marketing materials?

Could you use a financial boost to spruce up your storefront?

Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) is ready to help! We’re part of a unique grant program designed to help you make a banger of an impact on the massive influx of enthusiasts and ultras coming to the Pacific Northwest. 

How Can Snohomish County Businesses Benefit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to our area from all over the world.

And while we might not be a host city, we have the perfect position along the main travel corridor between Seattle and Vancouver.

That means our retailers, restaurants, and tourism-facing operations will have boundless opportunities to benefit. It’s one of the reasons Seattle NorthCountry has created a fantastic marketing toolkit to help you position your business as the place to go!

But what if you need something more?

What is the Activate Snohomish Community Grant Program?

Funded by the Seattle Foundation with support from the Washington State Department of Commerce, the Activate Snohomish Community Grant Program was created to help communities and their small business ecosystem make the most of this unique tourism opportunity.

As the designated small business liaison to the Snohomish Local Organizing Committee, EASC is leading the effort to ensure our amazing community stakeholders are well-equipped and ready to feel the roar! 

Activate Snohomish Community Grant Program FAQ’s

You’re welcome to reach out to us at grants@economicalliancesc.org if you have questions about the grant program. But here are some of the common FAQ’s. 

Can Businesses or Organizations Outside Snohomish County Apply for the Grant?

No. Grant applicants must be located in Snohomish County. 

Are There Any Other Eligibility Requirements? 

Yes. During the application process, you’ll also be asked to confirm the following:

• Activities funded by the grant will take place in Snohomish County
• You have a valid business license or nonprofit registration
• You are not a government agency requesting funds for unrelated staffing or capital projects
• You are not under investigation for misuse of funds or fraud

When Can I Apply?

Grant applications are being accepted from October 1, 2025, through December 1, 2025. 

How Much Grant Money Is Available?

A total of $85,000 has been designated for community grants, and funds will be distributed across two tracks:

Track A: Community Activation Grants (Up to $35,000): Grant amounts will range between $2,500 and $10,000, with 4 to 8 grants being awarded to nonprofits, chambers of commerce, cities, or community-based organizations to be used for:

• Public watch parties (If you’re hosting one, check out the Watch Party Playbook created by the Seattle Sports Commission)
• Tourism-focused marketing for things like maps, printed guides, and itineraries
• Temporary art installations or signage
• Community corridor enhancements by way of flags, planters and temporary wayfinding

Track B: Small Business Grants (Up to $50,000): Grant amounts will range between $1,000 and $5,000, with 10-30 grants being awarded to small businesses within Snohomish County for the following uses:

• Physical improvements to buildings, including awnings, paint, and signage
• Marketing and FIFA-themed promotions
• Costs related to temporary staffing
• Expenses for hosting match-related events

Can I Apply for Both Funding Tracks?

No. You can only apply for funding from one track. 

When Will Applicants Be Notified if They Receive a Grant?

Grant awardees will be notified on or around January 19, 2026.

How Can I Apply?

You can apply for the Activate Snohomish Community Grant Program by clicking here! It’s a simple, straightforward application. 

We’re Here to Help! 

If you have more questions related to the distribution of funds, eligibility, or anything else, please reach out to us at grants@economicalliancesc.org. We’re here to help your business score big during FIFA 26!