The Borough of Red Bank announced on May 6 that it has been awarded funding through the State of New Jersey’s NJ World Cup Community Initiative Grant Program to support the Red Bank World Cup Activation Series, a public event initiative planned for June and July 2026 in celebration of the FIFA World Cup.
The grant is part of a $5 million statewide investment supporting community activations and public fan experiences across New Jersey. The program aims to transform public spaces into gathering places that celebrate soccer, culture, community, and small business vitality during one of the world’s largest sporting events.
The Red Bank World Cup Activation Series will feature public watch parties at Count Basie Park, activities as part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, and placemaking experiences throughout town. The initiative is led by a partnership between the Borough of Red Bank, District 11 Legislative Office, FC Monmouth, and Red Bank RiverCenter with support from regional organizations and civic leaders. “Our Red Bank community knows how to show up with energy, creativity, and heart. This $50,000 grant gives us the opportunity to turn that spirit into something truly special through our World Cup activation series,” said Red Bank Mayor Billy Portman. “It’s always exciting to see what happens when we collaborate with partners across sectors and throughout the region around a shared goal. I can’t wait to see Count Basie Park buzzing with soccer fans and that Red Bank energy spreading far beyond our town,” Portman said.
Red Bank was selected as one of a limited number of recipients for its proposal highlighting its walkable downtown, arts infrastructure, accessibility via North Jersey Coast Line rail service, and ability to draw residents from across New Jersey without relying solely on cars. The initiative expects to increase foot traffic for local businesses while offering inclusive programming accessible to all ages.
More than 20 letters of support were received from organizations including Monmouth County leadership, Monmouth University, NJ Youth Soccer, Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, Two River Theater Company among others. “The Red Bank World Cup Activation Series represents the kind of forward-thinking community-centered investment we are proud to champion in District 11 and demonstrates the power of regional collaboration,” said Senator Vin Gopal along with Assemblywoman Margie Donlon and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul.
Events funded by this grant will also participate in FIFA’s Welcome World Rewards Program encouraging visitors to explore communities while supporting local businesses throughout New York/New Jersey host regions. Additional details about programming dates will be released in coming months.
