Newark’s World Cup Moment is Here

Newark has always been a city that knows how to host the world. But today, the stakes and excitement have reached a fever pitch.
 
Following Governor Sherrill’s recent "pivot" to a statewide World Cup Community Initiative, the Newark Regional Business Partnership convened more than 35 of our city’s influential leaders this past Monday. Representing our universities, cultural anchors, small businesses, community and business development organizations, and city government, the message was clear:
 
Newark is ready to be the "First Stop" for the world.
 
We are envisioning a city fully activated with lots of fun, flavor, and fandom. Imagine the streets of Newark during the tournament with the same electric, non-stop energy of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Picture the Ironbound’s soccer soul, the North Ward’s historic greenspace, and Downtown’s cultural power all linked by a seamless fan path. From the first whistle at sunrise to the final celebration at midnight, we want fans to land at EWR and realize they don’t need to go anywhere else.
 
The "Newark-First" Engine is Already Running: Our Monday convening revealed an incredible amount of momentum already happening on the ground:

• Newark Happening’s website is filled with lots of information for curious travelers, residents, and fans to fully “Experience Newark.”
• Micro-grants are available to help local groups bring their activation dreams to life.
  • Experience Newark Event Sponsorship Program
  • North to Shore Newark Community Grants
• Invest Newark will be launching a series of free workshops to ensure our small businesses are equipped to capture every dollar of this economic wave.

The Countdown is On: The NJEDA Board is set to formally approve the state’s World Cup Community Initiative on March 12, but we aren't waiting for the ink to dry. To ensure our city is the most prepared in the state, remember that Special Permit applications must be submitted to the City of Newark by March 31 for adequate consideration. Feel free to contact Victoria Walker at [email protected] or Melvin Waldrop at [email protected] if you have any questions.
 
This is our time to show the world the grit, the soul, and the hospitality of the Brick City. Whether you are a restaurateur in the East Ward or a nonprofit in the West Ward or South Ward, there is a place for you in this victory.
 
Let’s make Newark the heartbeat of 2026!

---