Ohio Sports Event Grant Program

The Ohio Sports Event Grant Program is administered by the Ohio Department of Development to support the attraction and hosting of major sporting events within the state. Established under the Ohio Revised Code, the program is designed to generate economic impact by increasing tourism, local spending, and state tax revenues. The initiative aligns with Ohio’s broader economic development strategy by incentivizing local organizing committees and government entities to compete for high-profile national and international sporting events. By offsetting a portion of event-related costs, the program encourages communities to secure events that may otherwise be financially unfeasible. The primary objective of the program is to stimulate economic activity through measurable increases in sales tax revenue. Funding is awarded based on projected incremental tax receipts attributable to the preparation and execution of a qualifying sporting event. Eligible events must be competitions of national or international significance, such as those governed by recognized sports federations or included in major competitions like the Olympic Games or similar events. Additionally, the event must not have been held in Ohio within the previous two years, ensuring that funding supports new or rotating opportunities rather than recurring local fixtures. Grant funds are provided on a reimbursement basis and are intended to cover qualifying costs associated with hosting the event. These costs may include venue preparation, infrastructure improvements, operational expenses, and contractual obligations required by the event’s governing body. The program requires that projected incremental tax revenue exceed a specified threshold, and the grant amount is calculated as a percentage of that projected increase. Awards are capped and cannot exceed either a set monetary maximum or the total qualifying costs incurred by the applicant. Eligibility is limited to specific organizational structures, including local organizing committees, endorsing municipalities, and endorsing counties that have entered into formal agreements with a site selection organization. These agreements, often referred to as joinder agreements or undertakings, demonstrate a commitment to hosting the event and fulfilling associated obligations. The program emphasizes collaboration between nonprofit entities and local governments to ensure that applicants have both the organizational capacity and public support necessary to successfully host major events. The application process is conducted through an online portal managed by the Ohio Department of Development. Applicants must create an account, complete detailed forms regarding organizational information, event specifics, and financial projections, and upload all required documentation. The process includes multiple stages of data entry, verification, and submission, with the ability to save and edit applications prior to final submission. After submission, applications are reviewed for compliance and eligibility, and applicants may be asked to provide additional information within a defined timeframe. Awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent upon eligibility and the availability of funds. Once approved, applicants enter into a formal agreement with the Department of Development, outlining the terms and conditions of the grant. Following the event, recipients must submit a comprehensive performance report detailing financial outcomes, ticket sales, and economic impact. Final reimbursement is contingent upon verification of actual costs and realized tax revenue increases, and funding may be adjusted if projections are not met. The program operates on a rolling basis without a fixed deadline, allowing applicants to apply as opportunities arise throughout the year.

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