Welcome to Newark
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Discover Opportunities in Newark

Newark is a city of endless possibilities. Whether you are a small business owner, resident, student, worker, or visitor, we invite you to explore all that Newark has to offer and find your place in this vibrant community.

Please take a moment to review the opportunities below, including grants, jobs, and business initiatives, and discover how you can get involved and thrive in Newark.


 

2026 Experience Newark Grant Program

 

Experience Newark Event Sponsorship Program

 

Following last year’s successful pilot, we’re excited to launch multiple micro-grant cycles in 2026.

See below for information on currently open cycles.

Cycle 2: Spring

  • Eligible Event Dates: May 1-June 12, 2026 
  • Application Closes: March 15, 2026
  • Award Notifications: April 15, 2026

 

Cycle 3: FIFA World Cup 2026™

Information on Cycle 3: We’re calling on ALL Newark-based community members, businesses, and organizations to apply for a microgrant of $500-$2,500 to host public watch parties, soccer-themed events, cultural celebrations, community gatherings, educational programs, and more — all around the official FIFA matches!

  • Eligible Event Dates: June 27 – July 19, 2026
  • Application Closes: April 1, 2026
  • Award Notifications: May 1, 2026

Cycle 4: Summer

  • Eligible Event Dates: July 20-September 14 
  • Application Closes: June 15 
  • Award Notifications: July 15 

 

Cycle 5: Fall

  • Eligible Event Dates: September 15 – October 31 
  • Application Closes:  August 15 
  • Award Notifications: September 10 

 

Cycle 6: Winter

  • Eligible Event Dates: November 1 – December 31  
  • Application Closes: September 25 
  • Award Notifications: October 25

This program empowers Newark-based organizations and residents in hosting community events that celebrate local culture, foster connections, and activate neighborhoods. These microgrants are meant to support grassroots initiatives, neighborhood gatherings, and cultural celebrations that show Newark as a vibrant and exciting destination.

Questions? Click here for the FAQ with guidelines and more information.


Invest Newark - Ready, Set, Goal

World Cup Ready: Business Training Series

Invest Newark: Ready Set Goal Business Training Series

Program Overview: 

As Newark prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, local businesses have a unique opportunity to shine and maximize the economic benefits of this global event. The Ready, Set, Goal Business Support Grant Program is designed to help Newark-based businesses gear up for increased visitor activity, enhance their operations, and capitalize on the excitement surrounding the World Cup.

This competitive grant offers a total of $75,000, distributed in grants of up to $5,000 to approximately 15 businesses. Funds can be used for a variety of activities, including marketing campaigns, event programming, equipment purchases, inventory, and other investments that attract and serve both visitors and local customers.

To ensure your business is fully prepared to leverage this opportunity, all grant recipients are required to attend at least one of four targeted training sessions focused on maximizing the economic impact of the World Cup. These sessions will cover essential topics such as hosting successful events, understanding FIFA restrictions, digital marketing tools, and more.

Grant funds will be provided upfront, with recipients required to submit documentation and proof of expenses.

Upcoming Trainings: 

  • World Cup 101 & Resources — March 27 at 10:00 AM
  • Legal Guidance for Businesses on FIFA Restrictions — April 14 at 10:00 AM
  • Get Noticed: Digital Tools for Successful Online Marketing — April 16 at 3:30 PM

 


Newark Welcome Team – Partner Opportunity

The Newark Alliance is seeking qualified partners to support the Newark Welcome Team, a dynamic, city-facing greeter program designed to enhance the visitor experience during major events and peak visitation periods across Newark.

Through trained greeters and tour guides, the Newark Welcome Team will provide a welcoming, knowledgeable, and hospitable presence throughout the city. Team members will assist visitors with directions, share insights about local culture and neighborhoods, and connect guests to Newark’s businesses, attractions, and signature experiences.

Grounded in local pride and hospitality, the program is designed to create meaningful first impressions for visitors while strengthening Newark’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming destination. By offering helpful guidance and authentic local insight, the Newark Welcome Team will encourage visitors to explore more of the city, extend their stays, and return for future experiences.

Organizations interested in partnering with Newark Alliance to help deliver this program are invited to learn more about the opportunity and submit a proposal.

Newark Welcome Team

Submission Information
Proposals must be submitted electronically by 11:59 PM on March 23, 2026.

Please submit questions and proposals to: Melissa Henry, Senior Director, Events and Experience, Newark Alliance
Email: mhenry@newark-alliance.org

 


More Opportunities to Come!