News Summary
Rhode Island officials have formed a new nonprofit named Ocean State 2026 to enhance tourism and economic development during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Led by Commerce Secretary Liz Tanner, the organization aims to attract over 1 million soccer fans to the Providence metro area. Gillette Stadium, one of the 16 host cities, is expected to generate a significant local economic impact. Although details about financials are unclear, the focus remains on maximizing Rhode Island’s appeal and creating long-term benefits from this global sporting event.
Rhode Island officials are launching a new nonprofit organization named Ocean State 2026 to enhance local tourism and promote economic development during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This tournament will see matches held at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, with events scheduled from June 13 to July 9.
The newly formed nonprofit will be spearheaded by Rhode Island Commerce Secretary Liz Tanner, who is resigning from her cabinet position to take on this critical role. Rhode Island General Treasurer James Diossa will chair the board of directors for Ocean State 2026. The initiative aims to attract an estimated 1 million international soccer fans to the Providence metro area during the event, capitalizing on the significant economic opportunities associated with hosting such a large-scale event.
Gillette Stadium has been selected as one of only 16 host cities for the World Cup, which will feature a total of 48 matches across North America. The matches in Massachusetts are anticipated to create over $330 million in local economic impact, according to projections from Governor Dan McKee‘s office.
Ocean State 2026 will take the lead on business sponsorship initiatives linked to the tournament while serving as a unifying force for state and local agencies, chambers of commerce, tourism organizations, and the FIFA World Cup Boston host committee. Diossa has highlighted the significance of the event for showcasing Rhode Island’s appeal and maximizing long-term economic benefits, stressing that it represents a substantial investment in the state’s future beyond just soccer.
Tanner, excited about her transition to Ocean State 2026, sees this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She has been the Commerce Secretary since June 2022, with her last day in office set for July 4. During her tenure, Tanner has made notable contributions, including managing the expansion of broadband infrastructure through a $100 million federal grant and supporting small businesses affected by the disruption caused by the Washington Bridge closure.
Following Tanner’s exit, an interim secretary will be appointed to fill her position. While specifics regarding Tanner’s new salary and the financial sources for Ocean State 2026 have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that the nonprofit will not depend on state funding.
Diossa’s efforts include attracting World Cup visitors to Rhode Island, with plans underway for event coordination. However, as it stands, there are no designated training facilities for national teams or official fan festivals planned in Rhode Island for the World Cup.
In summary, the formation of Ocean State 2026 marks a strategic effort by Rhode Island officials to leverage the global attention and economic potential provided by the World Cup. By focusing on tourism and collaboration among various stakeholders, the state hopes to make the most of this massive sporting event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Rhode Island Current
- Wikipedia: FIFA World Cup
- WPRI
- Google Search: Rhode Island 2026 World Cup
- Boston Globe
- Encyclopedia Britannica: FIFA World Cup
- Turn to 10
- Google News: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Providence Journal
- Google Scholar: Rhode Island 2026 World Cup
