TAMPA BAY — On the eve of the 2025-2026 Tampa Bay Lightning season presented by AdventHealth, Vinik Sports Group (VSG) and Benchmark International are proud to unveil the community investment strategy behind the recently announced Benchmark International Arena naming rights partnership.
The multi-year partnership will deliver $3 million in nonprofit contributions over the life of the agreement, fueling programs designed to strengthen Tampa Bay for years to come. Together, VSG and Benchmark International will focus on addressing food insecurity, improving education and supporting health and wellness across the region. Beneficiaries of the investment will be jointly selected by the Lightning Foundation and Benchmark International to align with the initiative’s focus areas. 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. Together, we’ve identified food insecurity, education and health and wellness as priorities. Because this arena belongs to the community, we’re also inviting fans to help shape where and how the impact is made. This story is not just ours – it’s Tampa Bay’s.”
A hallmark of the initiative is Voices of the Bay, a program that allows Lightning fans to influence how a portion of the funding is allocated through digital voting, in-arena activations and social media engagement. Benchmark International employees will also guide part of the investment toward causes they are most passionate about, while both organizations will participate in hands-on volunteering efforts across the community.
“We are proud to stand alongside Vinik Sports Group in making this long-term investment in our community,” said Tyrus O’Neill, CEO of Benchmark International. “Benchmark International Arena is more than a venue for world-class events; it represents a lasting commitment to creating positive change across Tampa Bay. 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.”
To celebrate the start of this new chapter, Benchmark International Arena will also host a three-day Open House from Friday, October 17 through Sunday, October 19. The weekend-long celebration will feature free, family-friendly activities including a Lightning watch party with a local food showcase, a free concert headlined by country music star Maren Morris, and a rare opportunity for fans to skate on Lightning ice before enjoying a special screening of Disney Pixar’s Inside Out. Designed to welcome the entire community through the arena’s doors, the Open House reflects the partnership’s commitment to accessibility, connection and shared experiences. More information about the Open House Weekend can be found here.
