Grants Policies & Procedures

Youth and Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund

In 2021 legislation was passed that created the $1.0 million Youth & Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund which through the Maryland Sports Commission supports event partners, rights holders and sports governing bodies to conduct amateur sporting events such as games, exhibitions, tournaments, and other sports competition-related events in Maryland. In 2022, Maryland Sports Commission solicited grant applications, reviewed those received, then according to the approved qualifications awarded funding to a multitude of applicants across the state. Youth & Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund (link)

Major Sports and Entertainment Events Funding Program (Major Event Fund)

On June 1, 2022, House Bill 897 (2022), Economic Development – Sports and Entertainment Facilities and Events; Prince George’s County Blue Line Corridor Facilities; and Racing Facilities, was enacted, creating the Major Sports and Entertainment Events Funding Program (“Major Event Fund”). The purpose of the Major Event Fund is to attract major sporting and entertainment events to the State; draw fans, participants, and tourists to Maryland; generate positive media coverage for the State; and produce a positive economic impact. The Maryland Sports Commission, a division within the Maryland Stadium Authority, administers and implements the Major Event Fund. Through the State Lottery Fund, up to $10 million annually is made available for this program through the Maryland Sports Commission. 

Major Sports & Entertainment Events Fund (visit the website link here) 

Legislative Document click here

HB897 Sports and Entertainment Facilities and Events

HB 897 (2022), while not actually a grant, functions like a grant through the MSA, as it authorizes MSA to issue up to $200 million to fund the development and /or renovations of sports entertainment facilities across the state including minor league ballparks where renovations will be necessary in order to maintain affiliations with major league teams and continue to play in our state. Proceeds allocated from the Maryland state lottery, up to $25 million annually, will be used to pay debt service on the bonds issued to finance the various projects. This new fund also may be utilized by other sports entertainment venues such as equestrian centers, multi-use sports complexes, venues for youth and amateur sports tournaments. Recreational facilities are eligible for funding if an economic and feasibility study demonstrates positive economic impact to the state of Maryland. Sports Entertainment Facilities and Events Program Policies & Procedures (link)