TAMPA, Fla. – Just ahead of the 2025-2026 Tampa Bay Lightning season, Vinik Sports Group (VSG) and Benchmark International have unveiled a significant community investment strategy tied to their recently announced Benchmark International Arena naming rights partnership.
The multi-year agreement includes a commitment of $3 million in nonprofit contributions aimed at strengthening the Tampa Bay region.
A Shared Vision for Community Impact
The initiative will focus on three critical areas: addressing food insecurity, improving education, and supporting health and wellness across the region.
The Lightning Foundation and Benchmark International will jointly select beneficiary organizations to ensure alignment with these core focus areas. The partnership explicitly states that this is not an open grant or application program.
“We knew it was important to our organization that our next naming rights partner share our passion for giving back to this community and investing in its future,” said Steve Griggs, CEO of Vinik Sports Group. “Benchmark International is that partner.”
The partnership underscores a shared belief that the arena, which hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning, “belongs to the community.”
Fan-Driven Philanthropy with ‘Voices of the Bay’
A unique element of the community strategy is the Voices of the Bay program, which empowers Lightning fans to directly influence how a portion of the funding is allocated. Fans will be able to participate through digital voting, in-arena activations, and social media engagement.
In addition to fan input, Benchmark International employees will also guide part of the investment toward causes they are personally passionate about. Both organizations plan to be actively involved through hands-on volunteering efforts.
Tyrus O’Neill, CEO of Benchmark International, emphasized the inclusive nature of the project. “What makes this initiative so powerful is that it reflects the voices of fans and employees, ensuring the impact is guided by the people it serves. Together, we’re building something inclusive, purposeful, and truly representative of Tampa Bay.”
Arena Open House Celebration
To inaugurate this new chapter, Benchmark International Arena will host a three-day Open House from Friday, October 17, through Sunday, October 19.
The free, family-friendly weekend is designed to welcome the entire community and features several high-profile events, including:
- A Lightning watch party featuring a local food showcase.
- A free concert headlined by country music star Maren Morris.
- A rare opportunity for fans to skate on Lightning ice, followed by a special screening of Disney Pixar’s Inside Out.
The Open House reflects the partnership’s commitment to shared experiences and accessibility, marking the beginning of a long-term investment in the Tampa Bay community.
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