How to Get Your Biz Involved with the World Cup
- May 13
- 3 min read
It’s right around the corner!
BACKGROUND
The FIFA World Cup is coming to the Bay Area this summer and it’s expected to bring one of the biggest waves of international visitors the region has seen in years!
It’s estimated that the event could generate between $270 million and $630 million in economic activity across hospitality, retail, transportation, food, events, and local services throughout the Bay Area.
Mega-events like the World Cup create opportunities for all kinds of local businesses, not only restaurants and coffee shops, also for local makers.
This is a chance for you to think creatively, explore new collaborations, and showcase the power of local production. Here are some ideas and resources to help your business take advantage of the opportunity.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
At the “Summer of Soccer: Small Business Readiness” panel hosted by SF Chamber of Commerce, we connected with local leaders and gathered insights, ideas, and opportunities to help our local makers:
Join the Local Business Marketplace
Register your business with the Bay Area Host Committee and be considered for local procurement opportunities.
Partner Partner Partner Partner
Many local businesses will be hosting watch parties throughout the tournament, not just during the Bay Area matches. Reach out to bars, breweries, cafes, pubs, restaurants, and event spaces with creative ideas to get your products, branding, or services in front of their customers. This could mean custom merch, custom packaged food, signage, themed products, giveaways, tastings, etc.
List of Watch Party Events: https://www.sfbayareafwc26.com/bay-area-events
Host a Watch Party of Your Own!
The Bay Area Host Committee has a webinar recording covering key details and FIFA regulations for hosting a public viewing. Whether you're planning a lively block party, turning your restaurant into a fan zone, or organizing a community gathering, this is the place to start.
Watch the recording here: https://bayareahostcommittee.com/playbook
Custom Gift and Souvenirs
Update and design your product line with a limited edition World Cup item. Even a small touch can make a difference in gaining new customers and appeal to the soccer crowd.
Reach Out to the Bay Area Committee
Email the Bay Area Committee with any questions and tag them on their social media so they can share your event or World Cup-related products.
RESOURCES
SCHEDULE
The Bay Area will host 6 matches from June 13th to July 1st:
June 13, 2026 – 12:00 PM PT - Qatar vs Switzerland
June 16, 2026 – 9:00 PM PT - Austria vs Jordan
June 19, 2026 – 9:00 PM PT - TUR/ROU/SVK/KOS vs Paraguay
June 22, 2026 – 8:00 PM PT - Jordan vs Algeria
June 26, 2026 – 7:00 PM PT - Australia vs Paraguay
July 1, 2026 – ROUND OF 32
All matches are held at Levi’s Stadium, 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way in Santa Clara, CA.
Also, the Australian National Team selected the Oakland Roots/Soul Training Facility on Bay Farm Island in Alameda as their official base camp for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will train there throughout the tournament.
SOCIAL
Feeling out of the loop? Here are some social media accounts to follow in the Bay Area. Check them out for possible collaborations, event updates and more!
San Francisco
South Bay
East Bay
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