SPORTS MATTER

Sports Development Funding Program

The Augusta Sports Council (ASC) accepts funding requests for sporting events that  support the mission of the ASC through recruiting, supporting and attracting sporting events, which will generate significant economic impact spending and overnight stays in the Augusta River Region.  Both the Sports Development and Sports Event Funding program places emphasis on out-of-area visitors generating economic impact, stimulating future event business, growing community exposure and supporting existing events which continue to improve and benefit the quality of life in the Augusta River Region.

 Events that may be considered for event assistance could include, but are not limited to, amateur or professional events, clinics and meetings or other categories approved by the ASC’s Board of Directors.  When awarding funding, the ASC places emphasis on out-of-state/area economic impact through confirmed hotel room nights, community support and image value to the Augusta Metropolitan area. Events with strictly local participation are not eligible for sports event funding support. 

Funding preference will be given to events that accomplish the following:

• Create new direct economic impact

• Add positive marketing exposure for the area

• Introduce new audiences/markets

• Produce off-season room nights

Basic Funding Guidelines

• Events must meet the minimum room night requirement based on the application type requirements.

• Funding shall be provided as reimbursement for approved actual expenditures upon completion of the event paid after the organization has incurred the expenses and submitted a Post-Event Report within 30 days after the event. Proof of payment MUST be provided. 

• The ASC will serve as a hotel housing source.

• Applicant/organizer must include a survey to participants during events to gather information from out of town participants to be utilized solely by the Augusta Sports Council.

• Request for funding CANNOT exceed $3,000 for the Sports Development Application and $5,000 for the Sports Event Application annually.

• Maximum event funding: potential of three times consecutively.

• Applications will not be accepted if events have already passed.

• Applicant/organizer must provide Certificates of Insurance listing the ASC as an additional insured at least 30 days before event with minimum liability coverage of $1,000,000.

• Include the ASC logo on promotions and marketing material including, but not limited to, printed material, social media and in all media and promotional outlets if agreed upon.

• Events whose focus is Richmond county residents are not eligible for funding (community celebrations, etc.)​.

How to Apply

Submit your post-event report within 30 days of your event!

If you have questions about event qualifications, or the application, please contact Michelle@augustasportscouncil.org to discuss your sporting event and support needs. The Augusta Sports Council is open to customizing a partnership that enables a mutually beneficial relationship to ensure that you get the most out of working with the ASC!