Atlanta Initiatives to Support Small Businesses Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
On February 3, Atlanta officials, including Mayor Andre Dickens and key representatives from local organizations, gathered for a press conference to highlight support for small businesses in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event aimed to inform business owners about opportunities to engage with the large influx of soccer fans expected in the city this summer.
Atlanta is set to host eight World Cup matches, including a semifinal, from June 11 to July 19. The matches will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, featuring teams from countries such as Cape Verde, Haiti, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Uzbekistan.
The mayor emphasized the importance of small businesses in the local economy, stating, “I want to ensure that what happens for the World Cup happens with Atlanta, not to Atlanta.” He introduced initiatives like Showcase Atlanta to empower local entrepreneurs to take advantage of this unique opportunity.
One of the significant programs discussed was the Marketing Grant Program, which offers grants of up to $5,000 to eligible small businesses in neighborhoods around the stadium. These funds are designed to help increase visibility and attract customers during major events.
In a bid to involve younger entrepreneurs, Dickens announced a Youth Entrepreneurship Accelerator program. This initiative will provide young residents under 21 with special vendor licenses to sell their products during the World Cup, along with training on business fundamentals.
Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President of Invest Atlanta, introduced a Business Readiness Loan Fund, offering loans between $5,000 to $15,000. The aim is to equip small business owners with the necessary resources to prepare for the anticipated increase in foot traffic and sales. Klementich noted that many businesses could benefit from this funding, as they wrap up preparations for the event.
A.J. Robinson from Central Atlanta Progress outlined the Downtown Pop-Up Opportunity Fund. This initiative will provide grants to enhance retail spaces in the downtown area, making them more appealing for new tenants and improving the overall downtown shopping experience.
Additionally, Lamar Stewart from Showcase Atlanta discussed resources like an online platform that offers customized training for small business owners. This platform will assist them in becoming event-ready, potentially unlocking further funding opportunities.
To enhance workforce readiness, a two-day expo will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center on March 5 and 6. The event aims to connect job seekers with employers, offering services like resume assistance and professional headshots.
In closing, Mayor Dickens reassured businesses that the city is keen to support them during the World Cup and beyond. He expressed hope that economic benefits from the tournament will extend to various community members, especially the underserved.
Overall, the upcoming World Cup represents an exciting chance for Atlanta, and city officials are determined to ensure that small businesses play a pivotal role in this global event.
