Photo courtesy of the Erie Sports Commission
The Erie Sports Commission is committed to promoting Erie, Pennsylvania as a prime destination for sports tourism and recreation. In 2025, Erie County set a record by hosting 86 events, the most in a single year, and surpassing $20 million in estimated economic impact for the third time in organizational history. The strong support and dedication of local organizations and event organizers is key to this success. To further these efforts, organizations turn to the Erie Sports Commission’s Facility Matching Funds Program to support facility improvements and expand events.
The Facility Matching Funds Program was introduced in 2018 as part of the Erie Sports Commission’s mission to enhance local sports facilities, support the development of sports infrastructure and increase sports tourism.
Since the program’s inception, more than $240,000 has been awarded, helping ensure Erie’s venues remain up to date with necessary upgrades and stay competitive in hosting top-tier events. This funding is made possible entirely through Erie County’s hotel tax.
The program has grown steadily over the years, both in the number of applications it receives and in the total funding awarded. In its first year, $10,000 was awarded to a single venue. Last year, that total grew to $75,000 and from a record of 22 applications,14 facilities received funding.
“The rising number of applications each year reflects the strong demand Erie’s sports community has for the venues and events we serve,” said Ben Huggler, event services director of the Erie Sports Commission. “By increasing our investment, we are helping ensure these enhanced facilities can attract more tourism-driven events and provide greater benefits to the region as a whole.”
How Facility Investments Drive Sports Tourism
Eligibility for the program is based on specific criteria designed to maximize the impact of each grant. Only facilities located in Erie County, Pennsylvania are eligible to apply, and proposed improvements should aim to attract new events or expand existing ones, driving out-of-town tournaments and increasing visitors to the region.
Requests for funding to assist with equipment purchases must directly support initiatives that boost sports tourism in Erie County. All projects must be fully completed by December 31 of the award year, with proof of payment submitted before reimbursement.
“We carefully review each application to ensure the funding supports projects that will have the greatest positive impact on sports tourism and the Erie community,” said Huggler. “Our goal is to help local facilities enhance their offerings, attract more events and provide long-term benefits for the region’s economy and visitors. Every project we support is chosen with the intention of strengthening Erie as a premier destination for sports and tourism.”
One facility that benefited from the Facility Matching Funds Program is Sinai Sports, a multi-sport gym specializing in ninja and gymnastics. Sinai Sports received grants from the program three separate times using the additional funding to enhance its facilities and support its events.
“We are incredibly thankful for the unwavering support and dedication of the Erie Sports Commission.” said Steve Dvoranchik, co-owner of Sinai Sports. “Their commitment to helping us grow our events and improve our facility has made a lasting impact, and we are proud to partner with an organization that shares our passion for community and excellence.”
As a result of this funding, Sinai Sports had the ability to host more events including the World Ninja League Midwest Regional Championship, which generated more than $500,000 in estimated economic impact and helped host a series of three World Ninja League qualifier events.
“We bring athletes from Michigan, Ohio, Canada, New York and Florida to Erie. The athletes love the area and we appreciate what the Sports Commission does to help us to host the events,” said Monica Dvoranchik, co-owner of Sinai Sports. “The growth we’ve seen has been incredible. We’re now able to offer more opportunities for athletes to compete and train.”
Another facility that benefited from the program is Critter Path Sporting Clays, which received a grant for facility upgrades in preparation for the 2025 PA State Sporting Clays Championship. The event marked the Erie Sports Commission’s first time supporting a clay shooting competition.
“The Erie Sports Commission awarded us a grant to assist in our Pennsylvania State Championship Shoot competition and supported us every step of the way,” said Mike Wise and Mike Pancerev from the 2025 Pennsylvania State Sporting Clays Championship. “Thanks to their investment, we can continue hosting events that drive tourism, boost economic impact and strengthen our organization.”
Building Partnerships that Drive Long-Term Impact
Beyond improving facilities, the program builds lasting partnerships with local organizations, strengthening the region’s sports tourism network.
By investing in both infrastructure and relationships, it fosters long-term growth and impact, expanding Erie’s event offerings and creating meaningful experiences for athletes and organizers alike.
Each year, the Erie Sports Commission prioritizes grants for facilities that have not previously received funding, while still supporting returning awardees to expand its network.
In 2024, the Erie Insurance Fields at McKean made its debut in Erie, featuring seven brand-new, multi-purpose flat fields.
“When we opened the Erie Insurance Fields in McKean, we immediately partnered with the Erie Sports Commission to expand both our network and the facility’s potential,” said Jay Perkins, owner of Erie Insurance Fields. “In 2025, we received a $15,000 grant to help purchase much-needed safety netting, soccer and lacrosse goals and a storage shed.”
After receiving the grant, the Erie Insurance Fields at McKean had the opportunity to host the GunDog Dan Rucks ALS 7’s Rugby Tournament, organized by the Presque Isle Rugby Club, as well as the Gem City Lacrosse and Boo Bash tournaments, both hosted by LaxBash, in part due to the facility upgrades provided by the grant.
Strengthening Erie On and Off the Field
Erie’s community partners play a key role in welcoming teams and ensuring successful events. By creating a positive experience, these partners encourage repeat participation and long-term growth. The resulting economic impact supports local businesses, sustains jobs and contributes to community programs, strengthening Erie’s reputation as a premier sports destination.
Investments in upgraded facilities further enhance Erie’s ability to host events and welcome visitors, creating lasting benefits for the community and local economy. These improvements also directly benefit local athletes, who gain access to improved training spaces, higher-level competition and greater opportunities to develop their skills without having to leave the region.
“Erie is a remarkably supportive community, which is evident every day through our partnerships with local businesses, events and facilities,” said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “The Erie Sports Commission plays a vital role in building and sustaining these relationships, helping create the collaborative and welcoming environment that defines Erie.”
For organizations looking to attract more events and grow their impact, one key piece of advice is to invest in both facilities and relationships. Upgrading venues can open the door to tourism-driving events, but building strong partnerships and meeting with local facilities, community groups and event organizers is equally important.
Collaborating with these partners and identifying funding sources helps maximize opportunities, share resources and create experiences that benefit both athletes and the local community. Planning strategically and seeking available support, such as grant programs, can position organizations to thrive and contribute to the region’s long-term sports and economic growth.
Erie Sports Commission’s Facility Matching Funds Program is helping shape the future of sports in Erie. It’s a powerful example of how smart investment and strong local support can create lasting success for athletes, businesses and the region. SDM
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