Sports Marketing and Tourism Account Program (SMAT)
The SMAT grant funds initiatives to bring major sporting and e-sports events to Pennsylvania, boosting tourism and economic impact through support for event hosting, marketing, and venue improvements.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Next quarterly application submission deadline; applications reviewed at the end of every calendar quarter)
Funding Amounts: Grant size varies; funding typically covers eligible costs related to event hosting, marketing, and venue improvements, with limits (e.g., up to 20% of certain expenses). Subject to fund availability.
Summary: Supports efforts to attract major sporting and e-sports events to Pennsylvania to increase tourism, economic impact, and quality of life.
Key Information: Applicants must include sponsorship benefits for Pennsylvania and comply with quarterly review cycles.
Description
The Sports Marketing and Tourism Account Program (SMAT) is designed to attract high-quality amateur and professional sporting and e-sports events to Pennsylvania. By funding initiatives that bring major events to the Commonwealth, the program aims to promote year-round tourism, generate economic impact, and enhance the state's quality of life through sport. Administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), SMAT provides grants to eligible entities for event-related expenses, marketing, and limited venue improvements.
