The dates for the event, to be held in Cleveland, were revealed Wednesday as Republican National Committee members gathered for a meeting in San Diego that was expected to draw several potential presidential contenders.

“The convention will be held significantly earlier than previous election cycles, allowing access to crucial general election funds earlier than ever before to give our nominee a strong advantage heading into Election Day,” RNC Chairman Reince Priebus said in a statement.

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“We’re excited to continue working with our partners in Cleveland and we look forward to showcasing everything the city has to offer to our delegates and the world in 2016,” he added.

Last cycle’s Republican National Convention was shortly before Labor Day. In shifting it to July, the party will enable its eventual nominee to spend money earmarked for general election earlier.

Democrats have yet to announce which city will host their convention that year; the finalists are New York, Philadelphia and Columbus.