The Sports Event Funding (SEF) Program provides financial assistance to support major sporting events that provide significant economic impact to Allegheny County. Qualifying events include athletic or Esports events, whether professional or amateur, that are regulated and sanctioned by a regional, national, or international organization or association. Funding may be up to $75,000, in the form of a grant or loan. The event must take place sixty (60) days after the application period ends and within two years of the application date.

Submitted applications will be evaluated on the following factors:

• Impact of the event on the Allegheny County economy
• Potential to attract visitors from outside Western Pennsylvania
• Potential to provide high-value exposure to the region
• Financial need and level of private investment
• Event quality, readiness, and likelihood of success
• Diversity, accessibility, and environmental sustainability

Submitted applications will first be evaluated by the Sports & Exhibition Authority's (SEA) Sports Commission committee. Those applications that are recommended by the SEA Sports Commission will then be considered by the Board of the SEA for funding.   

Applications are accepted twice a year, approximately December 15 - January 15 and June 15 - July 15.

Please Note: The application process is available through an online portal, and the SEF Program Application can be accessed here.

The SEF Program Guidelines can be accessed here, and in the portal.

The SEF Program Frequently Asked Questions can be found here.

If you need assistance in preparing an application or have any questions, please contact sef@pgh-sea.com.

Funding for the program is provided from the Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund.