Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 has unveiled Podium34, a historic fundraising initiative that brings together Utah philanthropic families, foundations, and giving organizations to support the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, while also funding major community and sport causes. It is the first program of its kind in scale and scope for an Olympic and Paralympic Organizing Committee.

During a launch event at the Organizing Committee headquarters in Salt Lake City, 22 Founding Captains and Donors were recognized, including several anonymous contributors. They represent Utah families, nonprofit foundations, corporate philanthropic arms, and other organizations dedicated to cause-related work in the state.

A $300 million goal

The Organizing Committee has set a $300 million revenue target for Podium34. At its public debut on September 8, the program already reported over $200 million in founding commitments — the largest philanthropic campaign ever in support of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The Games have an extraordinary power to unify,” said Fraser Bullock, President and Executive Chair of the 2034 Organizing Committee. “This is the first time a host for the Olympic and Paralympic Games has seen anything like this. We are deeply grateful to our donors for making it possible. Their leadership is a vital part of our commitment to host financially successful Games.”

Founding Captains and community impact

Among the 22 Podium34 donors, nine have been recognized as Founding Captains with commitments of $20 million or more. Other Founding Donors will contribute between $1 million and $15 million each.

A unique feature of the initiative is that Founding Captains will see their contributions reflected in meaningful sport and community programs led by the Organizing Committee. These may include projects in education, youth sports, mental health, arts and culture, and community engagement — priorities designed to capture the spirit of the Games.

Innovation with time to grow

Salt Lake City-Utah was elected in July 2024 to host the 2034 Games, nearly a decade in advance. The Organizing Committee was formally established in February 2025, giving it nine years of preparation and the opportunity to innovate through programs such as Podium34, designed to benefit both the Winter Games and Utah communities.

“As a native Utahn, I am proud of our state and have deep gratitude for these families and giving organizations,” said Brad Wilson, CEO and Vice Chair of the Organizing Committee. “In the true Utah way of service to others, they have stood up to support something that will have a positive impact across our state, but also set an example to the world of the values for which our state stands.”

Global recognition

Catherine Raney Norman, Vice President of Development and Athlete Relations for the 2034 Games and a four-time Olympic speed skater, emphasized the importance of donor leadership: “Behind every great athlete, and every great Games, is a dedicated team. We are grateful to our Podium34 Founding Captains and Donors for serving as that vital team, reflecting how Utahns come together to build, create, and make a lasting impact in their communities.”

From Lausanne, IOC President Kirsty Coventry addressed Podium34 donors in a special message: “You are the heart of this new chapter. Your belief, your vision, and your leadership are powerful elements of the Utah legacy.” She praised their role in sending a powerful message to the world — that sport can inspire, communities can be lifted, and together, something greater than ourselves can be built.