As the NFL Draft prepares to take over Pittsburgh, the headlines are filled with excitement, projections, and promises of economic growth. We’re being told this is a transformational moment for the region. But beneath the surface of the fanfare and forecasts lies a deeper, more important question: SHOW ME THE MONEY.

Public Dollars, Private Decisions

At least $18.9 million in public funding is being directed toward the NFL Draft. That includes a $10 million grant from the state, awarded through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Marketing to Attract Marquis Events program. Those funds were given to VisitPittsburgh — a publicly funded nonprofit tasked with marketing and coordinating the event.

The expectation? That this investment will generate between $120 million and $213 million in economic impact, with projections of 500,000 to 700,000 attendees coming into the city. Sounds like a win for everyone. But is it?

The Illusion of “Economic Impact”

“Economic impact” is one of the most powerful phrases used in large-scale events. It sounds definitive. Measurable. Promising. But in reality, it’s a projection — often built on models, assumptions, and best-case scenarios before the event even takes place. How do we determine attendance before the crowds arrive? How do we guarantee spending that hasn’t happened yet? And more importantly: how does that “impact” actually reach the people who live here? Because “impact” doesn’t automatically mean equity.

Let’s Set the Record Straight

There has been a narrative circulating — subtle but persistent — that Black businesses and professionals were somehow unprepared for this moment. That narrative is not only misleading — it’s false. Many Black entrepreneurs followed the rules, applied through the official processes, and positioned themselves for participation. They did exactly what they were told to do. And still, many are watching from the outside.

Access vs. Optics

This is not about a lack of effort. This is about access. Because what continues to play out is a familiar pattern: “Who you know” relationships driving decisions, pre-established vendor networks being prioritized, a handful of smaller deals distributed as proof of inclusion. Meanwhile, larger, more lucrative contracts often land in the hands of the same companies that have always had access. A few small wins do not equal equitable participation. They create optics — not ownership.

Who Really Benefits?

With so many public resources attached to this event, residents are asking the right questions: How much economic impact will actually be realized? Who will see that impact firsthand? And how will it be reinvested into the communities that need it most? Because if public dollars are funding this moment, then the benefits should be publicly shared. Not concentrated. Not filtered. Not limited to those already inside the circle.

The stage will be built. The crowds will come. The cameras will roll. And for a moment, Pittsburgh will be the center of the football world. But when it’s over — when the lights go down and the visitors leave — what will remain? Will there be lasting opportunity? Sustainable growth? Real reinvestment?

Black businesses were ready. Black professionals showed up. But the opportunity was filtered. And until that changes — until access is expanded, transparency is demanded, and equity is intentional — we will continue to say, louder each time: SHOW. US. THE. MONEY.

Article from Public Source with more financial details: publicsource.org