Major sporting events are driving a new wave of tourism investment across the Philadelphia region, and Montco is part of the game plan, writes Mike Larson for The Philadelphia Business Journal.
Governor Josh Shapiro announced nearly $5 million in grants through Pennsylvania’s Sports Marketing and Tourism Program to support 15 high-profile events statewide. While Philadelphia captured the largest share, Montco secured funding that will bring international competition to Conshohocken.
A $45,000 grant was awarded to Premier Soccer Services LLC for the Philadelphia International Cup Series, a four-day youth tournament hosted at the Proving Grounds. The event attracts boys and girls teams ages 8 to 14, along with traveling families who fill Montco hotels and restaurants.
Elsewhere in the region, Philadelphia received $3.1 million, including $1.7 million for Philadelphia Soccer 2026 ahead of the FIFA World Cup and $1.4 million for the Philadelphia Phillies to host 2026 MLB All-Star Week at Citizens Bank Park.
Delaware County will host championship golf events at Merion Golf Club and Aronimink Golf Club, while Chester and Lehigh counties also secured grants tied to national tournaments.
State officials estimate more than 1 million visitors will travel to the region in the coming year, a tourism boost expected to ripple from Center City to Conshohocken.
To learn more about the sporting boone, visit The Philadelphia Business Journal.
