North Carolina Embraces a Soccer-Fueled Economic Surge
In a display of soccer enthusiasm, thousands of fans converged in Charlotte for the U.S. Men’s National Team Send-Off Match, marking North Carolina’s growing role in the international soccer scene. This event, alongside others, is backed by the state’s Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund (MEGA Fund), which aims to enhance local economies through high-profile sporting events.
Governor Josh Stein expressed pride in the state’s vibrant soccer season, stating, “North Carolina is proud to be enjoying the summer of soccer.” He highlighted the economic benefits and the exposure these events bring to the state’s diverse offerings.
The MEGA Fund, managed by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, is designed to help communities in the state attract significant sporting and entertainment events. North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley commented on the fund’s objectives, noting, “Major events don’t just create memorable experiences for fans—they create real economic value for North Carolina communities.”
The “Summer of Soccer” in North Carolina encompasses marquee events such as The Soccer Tournament (TST), the U.S. Men’s National Team Send-Off Match, and the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. The Soccer Tournament in Cary attracted nearly 58,000 fans, while the U.S. team’s friendly victory over Senegal at the Bank of America Stadium drew a similar crowd.
Additionally, North Carolina will host training camps for three World Cup national teams: Germany in Winston-Salem, Norway in Greensboro, and Scotland in Charlotte. These preparations further cement the state’s role in global soccer events.
The MEGA Fund continues to expand its influence by supporting a wide range of events, from NASCAR races to the Professional Pickleball Association National Championships. By 2026, over $15 million has already been committed to bolster such initiatives, with $21 million earmarked for future events.
Recent soccer events underscore the economic impact of sports tourism in North Carolina. For instance, The Soccer Tournament (TST) in Cary generated an estimated $14.7 million in economic impact, while youth soccer activities contributed approximately $1 million statewide. In Charlotte, soccer remains a significant economic driver, with Charlotte FC alone generating $234.2 million in 2023.
The MEGA Fund’s support for major events translates into increased visitor spending, benefiting local businesses and enhancing the state’s visibility. In 2025, visitors spent a record $37.2 billion, supporting nearly 231,000 jobs and generating more than $2.7 billion in tax revenues.
The North Carolina General Assembly established the MEGA Fund to promote significant sporting and cultural events that boost local economies and position North Carolina as an attractive destination for tourists and investors. For more details on the MEGA Fund and its supported events for 2026, visit commerce.nc.gov.
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