New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill announces $5M investment to spur economic activity for World Cup

Thursday, February 19, 2026
NEW JERSEY (WABC) -- Although it's Olympics season, the next global sporting event, the World Cup, is only months away.

The World Cup is coming to New Jersey this summer, and Gov. Mikie Sherrill just announced a $5 million investment to spur local economic activity during the global event.

This initiative, led by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Committee, will support towns in creating fan zones, watch parties, festivals, and street fairs.

"New Jersey is the beating heart of the 2026 World Cup, and this initiative makes sure that every New Jerseyan - no matter where they live - can be part of this once-in-a-generation moment," Sherrill said. "The World Cup is coming to our state - and we are going to make sure it belongs to New Jerseyans first."

Sherrill says the funding will boost small businesses and celebrate local cultures.



----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* More New Jersey news
* Send us a news tip
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
* Follow us on YouTube

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
Copyright © 2026 WABC-TV. All Rights Reserved.