The Erie Sports Commission (ESC) has long been committed to fostering sports and recreational activities within Erie, Pennsylvania. Recognizing the significant role sports play in community building and economic development, the ESC continually seeks innovative ways to enhance local sports infrastructure and attract sports tourism-driving events.
In 2018 the ESC introduced its Facility Matching Funds Program, developed to help fund the renovation projects of local sports venues as well as support any equipment upgrades requested to further its mission of hosting and supporting events in Erie County and showcasing our community as a premier destination for sports tourism.
“The fact that we have seen a record number of applicants each of the last three years confirms that there’s a need for this program and we are very happy to play a small role in the completion of projects that support sports tourism,” said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “We understand that the availability of quality venues with state-of-the-art equipment is not only a top priority for event organizers but also paramount to our operations and our continued success.
“And while the ultimate goal is to help venues in Erie County to make improvements to support sports tourism, our grant program also helps to provide improved facilities and equipment for those in our community to utilize.”
Grants are awarded based on a comprehensive evaluation of each facility’s needs, the capacity to attract events that drive tourism and economic activity, and the potential impact on the community. By offering these grants, the ESC not only improves the physical infrastructure, but also promotes community engagement and supports the local economy.
The ESC is dedicated to the continuous improvement of the program. By receiving feedback from grant recipients and event organizers, we ensure that the program evolves to meet emerging needs and industry standards. This proactive approach allows us to address any gaps in the infrastructure and to anticipate future demands.
In 2024, the ESC received a record number of applications, and 10 organizations were awarded a grant. Facilities that received a grant (ranging between $1,000 and $10,000) include gyms that specialize in powerlifting, rock climbing, gymnastics and ninja; an equestrian club; multi-purpose event centers; a bowling alley; and a baseball field.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Erie Sports Commission for their generous grant,” said Chris Rosato Jr., general manager at ASCEND Erie, a state-of-the-art climbing gym in Erie that opened in the fall of 2023. “This funding will allow us to enhance our climbing infrastructure, providing an even better experience for our community and visitors. We're excited about the opportunities this grant creates for growth and development at Ascend Climbing."
Since its inception, the grant program has supported 27 projects and awarded a total of $165,700 in funding to improve sports venues in Erie County. The grant has allowed venues to improve their facilities or purchase new or additional equipment that has supported numerous tourism-driving events including the recently completed 2024 World Ninja League Midwest Regional Championships at Sinai Sports as well as the 2024 PA State USBC Open Championships, an event that ran for 10 weekends at two bowling alleys in Erie.
“Receiving the Erie Sports Commission Facility Matching Grant not once, but twice, has been a tremendous boost for Sinai Sports. These grants have empowered us to enhance our facilities, providing a better experience for athletes and visitors alike,” said Stephen Dvoranchik, director of operations at Sinai Sports. “We are incredibly grateful for the support, which allows us to continue promoting sports and wellness in our community."
The development of the Facility Matching Funds Program is just one of the operational programs that the ESC keeps current and future event organizers top-of-mind. When you work with the ESC, you’re working with a dedicated group of sports professionals with more than 40 years of live sports event planning and execution experience, a team that is ready to offer its support with event grant funding, securing space at one of its renovated venues, hotel RFP distribution and local marketing support.
Recently, Erie announced the second round of its 2024 Facility Matching Funds Grant Program, awarding five facilities. This year saw a record number of applications, and a total of $60,000 was distributed among 10 organizations. The first round of recipients included Sinai Sports, ASCEND Erie, Papa’s Sports Warehouse, Hagerty Family Events Center and Eastland Bowl. The second round of recipients are: The Erie Hunt and Saddle Club, LECOM Sports Park, Flo Fabrizio Ice Center, McDowell Baseball Boosters and American Power Gym.
Erie isn’t just a location, it’s a Sportscation Destination – with plenty to do for your athletes to make experiences that cause them to return to your event year after year. With a friendly and experienced staff, premier venues and unbeatable views, hosting a successful event in Erie is as simple as emailing Ben Huggler at ben@eriesports.com.
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