The NFL is actively seeking local and diverse businesses in the Pittsburgh area to participate in its NFL Draft Source Program, offering them a unique opportunity to be included in a key directory that connects vendors with the league. This initiative aims to support small businesses by providing them with exposure and potential contracts for services related to the draft.
With Detroit nearly a year removed from hosting the NFL Draft, the impact of the program has been significant. “Everybody was very excited,” said Marty Dobek, Executive Director of the Detroit Sports Commission, highlighting how the initiative provided a major boost to businesses in the city. Local vendors in Detroit saw increased demand for catering, transportation, logistics, event production, and hospitality services, leading to substantial economic benefits. Now, Pittsburgh businesses have the chance to experience similar opportunities as the city prepares for one of the NFL’s biggest annual events.
The NFL Draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh in 2026, is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, creating a surge in demand for local goods and services. Businesses that participate in the Source Program could secure contracts to provide everything from food and beverage services to security, signage, and entertainment.
The NFL is encouraging minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ-owned, and disability-owned businesses to apply for the program to ensure a diverse range of vendors are represented. The Source Program has been a key part of the league’s commitment to supporting local economies and fostering business growth in host cities.
As Pittsburgh gears up for the draft, business owners are urged to take advantage of this opportunity, which could lead to long-term partnerships with major organizations and continued success beyond the event.