As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, a new opportunity is opening for local entrepreneurs to take part directly in the moment.
The Welcome to ATL Experience, led by Showcase Atlanta and presented by DoorDash, is now accepting vendor applications from small businesses, creatives, and neighborhood-based brands interested in selling during match activity days this summer.
The activation will run June 14 through July 15 across 16 selling days tied to Atlanta’s eight matches, with pop-up locations designed to bring residents and visitors into direct contact with local businesses and culture.
Where vendors will be located
The Experience will activate three high-visibility downtown areas close to match activity:
- Steele Bridge at Centennial Yards
- The Center (former CNN Center)
- South Downtown
All locations will be open to the public — no match ticket required — making them accessible gathering spaces for residents as well as visitors.
Two vendor participation options
Businesses can choose between two turnkey selling formats:
Culture Stand
- 10’ x 10’ branded footprint
- Electrical hookup included
- Setup and teardown provided
- Social media promotion support
Experience House
- 10’ x 20’ premium footprint
- Prime placement within vendor location
- Category exclusivity at site
- Dedicated influencer feature
Participating vendors will contribute 30% of gross event-day sales, below the typical industry rate for activations of this scale.
Support before and during the event
Vendors will also have access to weekly support sessions covering:
- capacity planning
- working capital guidance
- operational readiness
Letters of intent will be available to help applicants pursue financing or grant opportunities through Invest Atlanta programs.
Some participating businesses may also be featured in a special editorial keepsake highlighting Atlanta entrepreneurs and their products.
Making sure global events include Atlanta businesses
The Welcome to ATL Experience builds on broader readiness work already underway through Showcase Atlanta to help small businesses prepare for the World Cup through training, coaching, and networking opportunities.
The goal is simple: when visitors arrive, they experience Atlanta through the people, products, and creativity that define the city.
Additional neighborhood-based vendor marketplace opportunities connected to the initiative are expected to be announced later this summer.
Businesses interested in participating can apply now at
welcometoatlexperience.com
