In an effort to help drive visitors and residents to local small businesses and community events during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the Welcome World Rewards Program kicks off on Monday, June 1, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill said on Tuesday, May 26.
“The FIFA World Cup is an opportunity to showcase everything that makes New Jersey special — our communities, our culture, and our small businesses,” Sherrill said during a press conference with Assemblywoman Ellen Park (D-37) and representatives of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee.
NJ: Destination Small Business
Sherrill made the announcement at the halal street-food restaurant The Chapped Cheese in Hackensack. While discussing the Welcome World Rewards Program, she mentioned that May is Small Business Month and highlighted her administration’s commitment to making New Jersey the best destination for business owners and entrepreneurs.
“The Welcome World Rewards Program gives residents and visitors a fun, interactive way to experience the tournament beyond the stadium while supporting local businesses across our state. By connecting this platform with community watch parties and neighborhood events, we’re creating more opportunities for New Jerseyans and tourists alike to participate in this historic moment,” Sherrill added.
Fans can sign up here for more information and to join the program.
NJ: Destination Cultural Diversity
Rep. Park pointed out that May is also Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI, also referred to as AAPI) Heritage Month. New Jersey is home to over 1 million people of AANHPI heritage, representing over 50 countries and ethnic backgrounds, according to NJ.gov data.
“AAPI Month is all about celebrating the contributions of our community and uplifting the importance and value of representation. It tells our children that anything is possible and ensures everyone’s voices are heard in the halls of power,” said Park.
“As sports fans flock to New Jersey from all around the world later this summer, our AAPI-owned restaurants not only offer community members a taste of home. They also invite spectators and locals alike to join in trying diverse food and, in turn, gain a greater respect for our cultures. Our small businesses are at the heart of this, and truly at the heart of what makes New Jersey such a special place to live and raise a family,” Park added.
Points, Prizes, and Staying Local
Welcome World Rewards Program members can earn points by visiting participating small businesses across the state and by attending New Jersey’s World Cup Community Initiative events throughout the tournament. Points can be redeemed for exclusive prizes and experiences while also giving fans the chance to explore communities across the state. The program takes place leading up to and during the tournament, starting Monday, June 1. People can sign up here.
This program builds on New Jersey’s broader $5 million NJ World Cup Community Initiative, a statewide effort led by Sherrill, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Choose New Jersey, and the NYNJ Host Committee, to support locally led watch parties, cultural festivals, and community events across all 21 counties during FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Fans who reach defined participation milestones can redeem points for prizes, including:
- Eligible for opportunities to attend FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches as guests of the NYNJ Host Committee
- Official NYNJ Host Committee fan event access
- Official NYNJ Host Committee merchandise
- Concert tickets at MetLife Stadium and Sports Illustrated Stadium
- Tickets to local sporting events
The Welcome World Rewards Program complements the NYNJ Host Committee’s broader strategy to ensure the economic and cultural impact of FIFA World Cup 2026™ reaches communities across the region by encouraging fans to explore neighborhoods, downtowns, restaurants, and locally led events throughout New Jersey during the tournament.
“The World Cup experience should extend far beyond matchday and we’re grateful to Governor Sherrill for her leadership in helping bring that vision to communities across New Jersey,” said NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry. “The Welcome World Rewards Program encourages fans to explore New Jersey communities, support local businesses, and experience the incredible energy building across our region during the tournament. Whether you’re attending a community watch party, grabbing a meal at a neighborhood restaurant, or discovering a new downtown, every interaction becomes part of the World Cup experience.”
