Utah Raises Over $200M for 2034 Winter Games Fundraising

The Salt Lake City 2034 Winter Olympics and Paralympics organizing committee has launched Podium34, a historic fundraising campaign that has already raised over $200 million from Utah philanthropists and organizations, aiming for a $300 million goal. This initiative represents the largest philanthropic campaign ever for an Olympic host city and covers about a tenth of the $2.84 billion operating budget for the Games. Nine prominent Utah families and foundations have each pledged at least $20 million, with additional contributions from companies like Maverik and Intermountain Health. The funds will support community programs in education, youth sports, mental health, arts, and culture, as well as initial event planning until sponsorship revenue can be accessed after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Organizers emphasized the significance of local support, including early commitments from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which played a key role in the 2002 Games. This robust financial backing helps ease concerns about the feasibility of hosting the 2034 Games amid global challenges such as climate change and high operational costs.