World Cup to help small businesses
Host committee will promote regional rewards program
By: Katie Soblo
NorthJersey.com
USA Today Network - New Jersey
..... In an effort to support local small businesses, the regional committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is launching an initiative to drive foot traffic and highlight diverse communities in New Jersey.
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The Welcome World Rewards Program is a free Online system that allows small businesses to be included in an official list for promotion by the host committee. The businesses would apply through the host committee and then fans would be able to engage with participating businesses through digital check-ins and collect points in a digital wallet that are redeemable for prizes. It's up to the businesses if they want to have any promotions or specials to coincide with the tournament.
..... The regional host committee's CEO, Alex Lasry, announced the initiative at a business conference in Atlantic City. He said "small businesses are at the heart of our region;s economy and identity" and that the program "creates a fun, interactive way for local fans and the millions of visitors coming to our region to engage with local businesses."
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Launching May 25, [2026] a few weeks before matches state at MetLife Stadium on June 13, [2026] the program will include a directory of participating small businesses across the region and discover available promotions.
..... Fans will be able to check in to earn points and unlock exclusive games and interactive experiences. The host committee will also offer up to eight opportunities for participants OT win tickets to attend World Cup matches as gusts of the host committee, potentially even the final on July 19. [2026]
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In order to qualify, fans will have to hit certain milestones within the program by visiting businesses in all 21 counties as well as the five boroughs. Other prizes will include tickets to various sporting and entertainment events, FIFA Wold Cup merchandise, and access to official New York New Jersey Host Committee fan experiences.
..... Governor Mikie Sherrill said in a statement that the program "ensures [fans] engage directly with our local shops, restaurants and entrepreneurs."
..... "This innovative platform will help small businesses benefit from increased economic activity while giving fans an authentic taste of everything that New Jersey and the region have to offer," she said.