Pasco County's 2026-2027 Marketing Matching Sponsorship Program Opens, Offering Up to $10,000 for Local Events

Pasco County's Marketing Matching Sponsorship Program Opens for 2026-2027

Local organizations looking to boost their events and attract visitors from outside the Tampa Bay area can now apply for Pasco County's 2026-2027 Marketing Matching Sponsorship Program (MMSP). Florida’s Sports Coast, the county's destination management organization, opened applications for the program, which offers up to $10,000 in funding.

This program directly benefits Hudson residents and organizations by providing financial support to promote local artistic, cultural, and unique experiences. Increased marketing reach means more visitors, potentially boosting local businesses and showcasing what Pasco County offers beyond sports.

New Funding Opportunities for Local Events

The MMSP aims to spotlight events and attractions that draw visitors to Pasco County. Executive Director Adam Thonas emphasized the program's role in showcasing the community and connecting with both visitors and residents. “We’re excited to partner with organizations, as it represents a fantastic opportunity to showcase our vibrant community and connect with visitors and residents in meaningful ways,” Thonas said. “Collaborations like this fuel our ongoing mission to create memorable experiences for everyone who comes to Pasco County.”

For the 2026-2027 cycle, Florida’s Sports Coast introduced three new funding incentives:

• Core Marketing Matching Sponsorship: Provides up to $5,000 for general marketing efforts.
• Long-distance Promotions Incentive: Offers up to $2,000 to target audiences further afield.
• Room Night Generation Incentive: Provides up to $3,000 for events that encourage overnight stays.

How to Apply and Program Requirements

Organizations interested in applying for the MMSP must meet several key requirements. Events must take place between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027. Applicants need to provide a dollar-for-dollar match, which can include in-kind goods. MMSP funds are specifically for event-related marketing expenditures targeting tourists outside Pasco County.

A crucial step in the application process requires all applicants to attend a one-on-one session before funding approval. Interested parties should have contacted Florida’s Sports Coast by July 2, 2026, to register for these sessions. Further details about the program and application process are available on the Florida’s Sports Coast website.

Expanding Reach Beyond Tampa Bay

The program's core mission focuses on expanding the marketing reach of local events beyond the immediate Tampa Bay area. This strategic approach aims to bring new visitors and their spending to Pasco County, supporting local economies and enhancing the county's reputation as a diverse destination.

Organizations that missed the July 2, 2026, deadline for one-on-one session registration should contact Florida's Sports Coast directly for any potential late considerations or information regarding future cycles.