NSL Final Expected To Generate $12 Million In Economic Activity

The inaugural Northern Super League Final was locked in for Toronto’s BMO Field back in July, and the host city is now ready for the big moment to come.

The Ontario government is investing $180,000 to help deliver the final and support the growth of women’s football, with the province estimating the NSL final will draw more than 20,000 people and generate twelve million dollars of economic activity.

That’s some pretty big bang-for-buck.

There will also be plenty of events leading up to the final itself, with a multi-day gathering of sporting, media, marketing, and culture leaders helming the Changemakers Summit, along with NSL Media Day and the NSL Fan Fest presented by Coca-Cola all before the season culminates on Saturday afternoon.

“With the emergence of organizations like the Northern Super League, we are witnessing a new era of women’s sports in Canada and our government is proud to support its growth,” says Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden.

The Vancouver Rise became the first team to book their spot in the final after a tense penalty shootout win over the Ottawa Rapid, whilst AFC Toronto steamrolled Montreal in a lopsided 6-1 aggregate scoreline to punch their own ticket on Monday.

Given that BMO Field was pre-selected as the venue, one expects the Toronto team to have home field advantage – though by chance, AFC Toronto is zero-for-two at the lakeside venue. Perhaps the third time will be the charm.

“The NSL Final is a milestone moment for professional soccer in Canada and we are grateful to the government of Ontario for their support,” adds NSL co-founder Diana Matheson.

“This investment recognizes the positive impact the NSL Final will have on Toronto and across the province – attracting fans, driving economic activity for local businesses, celebrating the growth of women’s soccer, and highlighting Ontario’s leadership in advancing women in sport.”

The $180,000 of government funding may sound like a heap for a single match, but the province invests more than $30 million into sports and recreation programs each year overall. The final will culminate with either AFC Toronto or the Vancouver Rise becoming the first team to hoist the Diana B. Matheson Cup.

“This investment will inspire more women and girls to continue playing sports and pursue their dreams of becoming professional athletes,” adds Charmaine Scott, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity. “By breaking down barriers and providing more opportunities for women and girls to reach their full potential and succeed, we are supporting communities across the province. Because when women succeed, Ontario succeeds.”

Fans interested in purchasing a ticket to the 2025 Northern Super League Final can do so here.

Header Image Photo Courtesy: AFC Toronto