Winnipeg, MB - On the eve of the 101st Grey Cup taking place in Regina this weekend, Mayor Sam Katz today announced his intention to table a motion at Executive Policy Committee (EPC) next Wednesday to provide a $1 million investment to ensure a successful bid to see the Grey Cup return to the Prairies in either 2015 or 2016.
The motion recommends that the City of Winnipeg provide a hosting grant to the Winnipeg Football Club in the amount of $680,000 as well as an in-kind contribution of City services to a maximum value of $320,000. If approved by EPC, the motion will be presented to full Council on December 11.
On Oct. 31, 2013, the City of Winnipeg, the Province of Manitoba and the Winnipeg Football Club collectively announced their bid to host the Grey Cup Game and Grey Cup Festival in 2015 or 2016. It is estimated that hosting the Grey Cup will inject over $100 million into Winnipeg’s economy. The 2012 Grey Cup hosted in Toronto generated more than $133.1 million in total economic activity throughout the Province of Ontario.
“Hosting the Grey Cup is a great opportunity to showcase our City, as well as provide a boost to the local economy,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “Winnipeggers are ready to show, once again, why our city is known for its warm hospitality, passionate volunteerism, and tremendous spirit.”
The Winnipeg Football Club has hosted successful Grey Cups in 1991, 1998, and most recently in 2006. The City of Winnipeg provided a grant of $500,000 to the 2006 event.
In 2008, the City of Winnipeg, together with Economic Development Winnipeg, created the Special Event Marketing Fund to provide a funding source for special events such as the Grey Cup. The Fund is supported by the City’s Accommodation Tax.