Sport Hosting Vancouver

Sport Hosting Vancouver is a partnership initiative aimed at attracting and supporting sporting events in Vancouver, which can consist of several different entities and programs with similar names. These programs provide financial and logistical support to events that can bring economic, social, health, and community development benefits to the city.

Grants and Funding

Vancouver Sport Hosting grants, which is a separate entity, offers several types of grants to support sporting events that bring economic, social, health, and community benefits to the city. There are also other grant programs from the city.

The Local or Regional Sport Tournament Grant supports community-based events with smaller operating budgets, including sanctioned provincial or regional championships. This grant covers up to 30% of the total gross operating budget, typically not exceeding $10,000.

The New Sport Event Initiative Grant encourages new ideas and first-time projects that align with sport hosting objectives, such as volunteer development, community engagement, and sport development. This grant covers up to 50% of the total gross operating budget, typically not exceeding $5,000. The Annual Sport Event Grant supports recurring annual community sport events that encourage and draw community-wide participation, covering up to 30% of the total gross operating budget in a given year.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for these grants, applicants must:

• Represent a not-for-profit organization that has been in existence for more than one year.
• Plan a not-for-profit sporting event that will take place in Vancouver.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, with specific intake periods and council decision dates. It’s important to apply well in advance of your event to ensure funding can be secured.

Major Events

Vancouver has a rich history of hosting major sporting events, showcasing its world-class facilities and vibrant community spirit. One of the most notable upcoming events is the FIFA World Cup 2026, where Vancouver will host seven matches, including two of Canada’s group games and two knockout stage matches. The matches will be held at BC Place, a technologically advanced stadium with a seating capacity of 54,000.

In the past, Vancouver successfully hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015, including the championship match where the USA defeated Japan. This event highlighted Vancouver’s capability to manage large-scale international tournaments.

Additionally, Vancouver has been a venue for other significant events such as the 2010 Winter Olympics, which brought global attention to the city and showcased its ability to host multi-sport events. The city also regularly hosts the Vancouver Marathon, attracting runners from around the world, and the Rugby Sevens World Series, which is a popular annual event. But also popular events such as the Invictus Games and The Grey Cup Festival. These events not only boost the local economy but also enhance community engagement and promote a healthy, active lifestyle among residents.

Community Engagement

Sport hosting in Vancouver places a strong emphasis on community engagement, aiming to create lasting benefits for the local community through sporting events. This initiative focuses on several key areas. By involving local volunteers in the planning and execution of events, Sport Hosting Vancouver helps build a sense of community and provides valuable experience and skills to participants. The program supports events that promote inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that people of all abilities can participate and enjoy the benefits of sports. For example, the Community Sport Champions Recognition Program celebrates individuals and organizations that make sports accessible for athletes with developmental or physical disabilities.

Many events supported by Vancouver Sport Hosting grants include programs specifically designed to engage youth, encouraging them to participate in sports and stay active. This not only promotes physical health but also helps in the development of teamwork and leadership skills. The initiative collaborates with local schools, community centers, and sports clubs to maximize the impact of events. These partnerships help integrate sporting events into the fabric of the community, fostering a culture of active living. By hosting major sporting events, the program brings economic benefits to local businesses and creates opportunities for social interaction and community pride.

Economic Impact

These sport hosting events have a significant economic impact on the city, driven by the influx of visitors and the spending associated with major sporting events. Hosting events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to bring over one million out-of-province visitors between 2026 and 2031, generating more than $1 billion in additional visitor spending. This influx is also projected to contribute up to $224 million in direct, indirect, and other related provincial tax revenues.

Past events have also demonstrated substantial economic benefits. For instance, the 2010 Winter Olympics boosted British Columbia’s gross domestic product by $2.3 billion, created 45,000 jobs, and resulted in $1.1 billion worth of contracts for B.C.-based companies. Similarly, the HSBC Canada Sevens rugby tournament has consistently drawn record-breaking audiences and booked over 2,300 hotel rooms for event requirements, significantly benefiting local businesses. These events not only enhance the city’s global profile but also stimulate local economies, create jobs, and foster community pride and engagement.