With less than 100 days until the FIFA World Cup 2026™ kicks off on June 11, the New York New Jersey Host Committee today announced the launch of the Welcome World Rewards Program, a region-wide initiative designed to connect millions of fans with local small businesses and help drive economic activity across communities throughout the region.

The Welcome World Rewards Program creates a fun, interactive way for local fans and the millions of visitors coming to our region to engage with local businesses and experience everything New Jersey have to offer. 

 How It Works -  The Welcome World Rewards Program is free and easy to use for both businesses and fans: 

• Small businesses opt in at no cost through a simple application process, which will open on March 31 and can be accessed via the NYNJ Host Committee’s website

 • Fans engage with participating businesses through digital check-ins and collect points in a digital wallet that are redeemable for prizes

 • Businesses may extend fan-friendly promotions such as discounts or tournament-themed specials, or other offers. Through a web-based platform, the Welcome World Rewards Program will launch on May 25, and fans will be able to explore a directory of participating small businesses and discover available promotions. As fans visit and check in at participating locations, they will earn points and unlock exclusive games and interactive experiences — creating a dynamic, engaging way to explore neighborhoods and connect with local businesses throughout the FIFA World Cup. 

To drive participation and regional exploration, the NYNJ Host Committee will offer up to eight opportunities for participants to win an invite to attend FIFA World Cup matches as guests — including the Final match in the Meadowlands on July 19. The Welcome World Rewards Program is a key component of the Host Committee’s broader strategy to ensure the FIFA World Cup’s projected $3.3 billion economic impact reaches local businesses across the region. By encouraging fans to explore beyond traditional tourist destinations, the program is designed to distribute visitor spending more broadly.

For more information on the program, sign up for the Get World Cup Ready Live Stream on April 14 at 11am. This free, hands-on session with Google will help you optimize your digital presence ahead of the tournament!

Register Here for Live Stream       Enroll Your Business Here!

Get in the Spirit right here in Southern Ocean County, take part in our World Cup Watch Party Weekend June 13-14!