Metro Philadelphia

Mayor Cherelle Parker announced a slate of initiatives on Friday that are aimed at ensuring neighborhoods across the city share in the economic and cultural impact of major global events coming to Philly in 2026.

The plan includes a new Neighborhood Celebration Grant Program, a free mobile app to connect residents and visitors with events citywide, and a business readiness guide for small businesses preparing for increased tourism tied to the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Week and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

“This is about making sure every neighborhood in Philadelphia is part of this historic moment,” said Parker. “We are investing in our communities, connecting people to opportunity, and creating the conditions for our residents and small businesses to benefit as we prepare to welcome the world.” 

Investing in neighborhood celebrations 

The city will make $1 million available for community-based events through the Neighborhood Celebration Grant Program. Philadelphia-based nonprofit organizations can apply for competitive grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 to support arts and cultural exhibitions, performances, historic commemorations and neighborhood beautification projects.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 24, with awards expected to be announced around May 22. All funded activities must take place in 2026 and reflect community input. Applications must be submitted via the Philadelphia City Fund at philacityfund.org/2026.

Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley said the initiative is designed to empower local organizations.

“Community organizations are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods,” she said. “This program gives them the resources to bring people together, celebrate who we are, and make sure every corner of Philadelphia is part of 2026.” 

Launching Access Philly 

In addition to funding neighborhood events, the city is launching “2026 Access Philly,” a free, multilingual mobile app. Available now on the Apple App Store and Google Play, 2026 Access Philly allows users to discover events in real time, access maps and accessibility information, and explore offerings across every neighborhood. 

With Philadelphia set to host the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Week, and the nation’s Semiquincentennial, the app serves as a real-time hub for events across the city, from major attractions to neighborhood festivals. 

“We are preparing to welcome the world, and we want everyone to know where to go and how to be part of it,” said Parker. “2026 Access Philly puts the full experience of our city in people’s hands and ensures residents and visitors can easily connect to everything happening across Philadelphia.” 

City officials said the app, developed by the Office of Innovation and Technology, is intended to continue beyond 2026 as a long-term platform connecting residents, visitors and businesses.

Business Readiness Playbook 

The administration also released the Philadelphia 2026 Business Readiness Playbook, a guide to help small businesses prepare for increased demand. The playbook includes checklists, permitting information, training resources and guidance on fraud prevention.

Officials said the combined efforts are designed to drive economic opportunity across neighborhoods while ensuring residents and local businesses play a central role in the city’s preparations for 2026.

“These celebrations are about making sure this moment is felt in every neighborhood,” said Parker. “We are investing directly in our communities so residents can celebrate their culture, share their stories, and build pride where they live.”