Event Development Program Grant

Program Overview:
USMS has created an event development program that provides resources and financial support to help start new events and grow existing events. USMS events provide a competitive outlet and motivational goal for adult swimmers, as well as opportunities for USMS clubs to build their swimming community with fun experiences and generate revenue for operations.

Geographic Scope: United States

Who Can Apply:

• Clubs interested in hosting a meet, open water swim, or fun swimming event
• Aquatics facilities interested in using their space and increasing revenue
• Prior swimming events rebuilding or restarting since the pandemic
• Event directors interested in growing a current event or starting a new one

Requirements:
Grant applicants must have the capacity to host a 100+-person USMS-sanctioned pool meet or open water swim in the next calendar year with the intention of building the event in future years.

Award Amounts:

• Typical grant: $500–$1,000
• Maximum grant award: $3,000 for event expenses in excess of revenue
• Grant amount determined based on forecasted expenses, details of strategy, marketing resources necessary, need, etc.
• Incentive grants available: USMS will match $0.50 of every dollar of net income up to the full grant award amount (e.g., $1,500 grant awarded to offset projected deficit, event realizes $2,000 net income, USMS awards $1,000 incentive grant)

Purpose:
Financial support is designed to insure a club or event director against a loss from hosting an event, not as a revenue-generating source. It is also intended to encourage new event development by minimizing financial risk.

Development Support Components Provided:

• Event consulting
• Meet directors guide
• Facility engagement and negotiation
• Pricing and registration support
• Profit and loss management
• Budgeting
• Volunteer recruitment
• Operational guidance and administrative advice
• Suggestions for social elements and ancillary programming

Marketing and Programming Support:

• Locally targeted digital ad campaign created by USMS
• Consult with club leadership on local marketing program (e.g., word of mouth, facility, etc.)
• Connect with LMSC representative(s) for additional exposure
• Feature the event in USMS's event newsletter and/or social media

How to Apply for Event Development Program Grant

Application Process:

1. Answer the Event Questionnaire
2. Schedule a call with the event development team for more specifics
3. Work with the event development team to build a plan sharing background

Required Materials:

• Completed Event Questionnaire
• Event budget and planning details
• Forecasted expenses
• Strategy details
• Facility and pricing information
• Volunteer recruitment plan

Available Templates:

• Grant agreement template
• Budget template

Next Steps:

• Clubs, facilities, or event directors interested in any or all components of the event development program are encouraged to schedule a call with the event department
• Complete questionnaire available on the Event Development Program page

Note: Incentive grant opportunities must be agreed to in advance based on event details and must be used to support future event or club needs.