New York-New Jersey Host Committee Launches Rewards Program for World Cup Fans

As the region prepares to welcome soccer fans from around the globe for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the New York-New Jersey host committee has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bridging the gap between international visitors and local commerce. The Welcome World Rewards Program is designed to encourage fans to explore and support small businesses throughout the New York and New Jersey area.

How the Welcome World Rewards Program Works

The program, announced by New York-New Jersey host committee CEO Alex Lasry, incentivizes engagement with the local business community through a digital rewards system. Fans can participate by signing up for a digital wallet that tracks interactions with participating local businesses.

The mechanism is straightforward: fans accrue points through digital check-ins as they visit participating establishments. These points are then redeemable for a variety of prizes curated by the host committee. Among the most anticipated rewards are tickets to World Cup matches held at MetLife Stadium, including the tournament’s final match, which is scheduled for July 19.

Participation Details for Businesses and Fans

• For Businesses: Small businesses located along the region’s corridor can apply to join the program at nynjfwc26.com. The application window is open from late March through mid-June 2026.
• For Fans: Participants can sign up for the digital wallet to begin collecting points immediately upon registration, allowing them to earn rewards while experiencing the local culture and economy during the tournament.

A Strategic Boost for Local Economies

The initiative serves as a strategic effort to ensure that the economic impact of the World Cup extends beyond the stadium gates. By gamifying the experience of visiting local shops, restaurants, and service providers, the host committee aims to distribute the high volume of foot traffic expected during the monthlong tournament across a broader range of the region’s small-business sector.

“The Welcome World Rewards Program creates a fun, interactive way for local fans and the millions of visitors coming to our region to engage with local businesses and experience everything New York and New Jersey have to offer,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York-New Jersey host committee.

Broader Regional Efforts

The Welcome World Rewards Program is part of a larger trend among host cities to integrate local commerce into the high-profile sporting event. Similar initiatives are taking place in other host regions. for example, Philadelphia Soccer 2026 has announced plans to support a vendor village alongside its fan festival. These efforts collectively reflect a commitment to ensuring that the 2026 World Cup provides tangible benefits to the local communities hosting the matches.

Key Takeaways

• Goal: To drive visitor traffic to small businesses in New York and New Jersey during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
• Incentive: Users earn points through digital check-ins at participating businesses, which can be redeemed for prizes, including World Cup final tickets.
• Timeline: Business applications are being accepted through mid-June 2026.
• Accessibility: Fans and business owners can find more information and sign up via the official portal at nynjfwc26.com.

As the tournament approaches, the success of this program will likely be measured by the level of participation from both the small-business community and the influx of international soccer fans. For those planning to attend matches at MetLife Stadium, the program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the local economy while potentially securing a seat at one of the world’s most significant sporting events.