The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce announced on Apr. 14 that it is supporting a new initiative aimed at connecting local businesses with the influx of visitors expected during the FIFA World Cup, which will take place from June 11 through July 19 and include eight matches in New Jersey, including the Final at MetLife Stadium.
The event is projected to bring more than 1.2 million visitors and generate over $3.3 billion in economic impact across the region. This presents a significant opportunity for businesses throughout New Jersey to benefit from increased tourism and global attention.
Tom Bracken, President & CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, said there is active coordination underway to ensure that this moment delivers for businesses statewide. “The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce is helping promote an initiative called the ‘Welcome World Rewards Program,’ which is designed to drive World Cup tourists to small businesses in our region,” Bracken said. He added that Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee, introduced this program at a recent business summit.
According to Bracken, “Free to all, the program provides a digital experience linking residents and tourists to participating businesses.” The Welcome World Rewards Program offers incentives for fans who visit local establishments during their stay—one incentive being a chance to win tickets to the FIFA World Cup Final.
The chamber operates statewide with an emphasis on economic solutions across the region according to its official website. It supports workforce development by focusing on skills needed for future jobs according to its official website, works with local chambers on major business issues according to its official website, and lobbies for policies aimed at making New Jersey more attractive for business growth and employment according to its official website. The organization also advances business-friendly legislation designed to foster job creation in the state according to its official website and provides networking events as well as educational resources for member companies according to its official website.
Bracken concluded by saying: “If we’re prepared, this summer’s FIFA World Cup won’t just be a successful tournament. It will be an economic success for New Jersey.”
