ATLANTA – April 16, 2026 –Today, the Invest Atlanta (IA) Board of Directors approved $90,000 in Tax Allocation District (TAD) funding to help Municipal Market in Sweet Auburn merchants capitalize on Atlanta’s upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™ games and other major sporting events. As part of IA’s ongoing commitment to support the Atlanta business community ahead of the tournament, which is anticipated to bring millions of visitors to Atlanta this summer, the program will award a $10,000 grant to nine eligible merchants within the Municipal Market.
“The Municipal Market has been a cornerstone of Atlanta's Sweet Auburn neighborhood since 1924 and investing in fresh food access and entrepreneurship is a hallmark of the Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. " As we prepare to host one of the largest sporting events in the world, it is critical that our local businesses operating within the market are front and center when presented with opportunities that will produce long term benefits. Investments like these help elevate our entrepreneurs who define our unique identity, which will build a stronger Atlanta for decades to come.
Funds will help with facade improvement to their storefronts, including signage upgrades, lighting enhancements, and other beautification efforts that will elevate the shopping and dining experience for local patrons and international visitors alike in addition to the overall market environment. This strategic investment will provide targeted resources to enhance the readiness, visibility, and global competitiveness of local small businesses operating within the market, one of the city’s most iconic destinations for culture and community.
"Invest Atlanta is committed to ensuring that the small business owners who are the heart of the municipal market have the resources they need to be successful,” said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. “The World Cup is a catalyst, but this investment is about something bigger. It’s about the long-term vitality of the Sweet Auburn community and the entrepreneurs who are key contributors to the city’s economy who have anchored this community for generations.”
The funding aligns with Atlanta’s broader economic development strategy to leverage global events, creating lasting opportunities for local businesses, particularly those in historically significant corridors such as the Sweet Auburn district.
“Invest Atlanta has been an essential partner for the Municipal Market," said Executive Director Jeff Delp. "Their support has directed thousands of dollars toward preserving and strengthening our small businesses, while positioning them to grow as Atlanta welcomes visitors from around the world."
Businesses receiving Municipal Market Vendor Success Grant financing include:
- Philly G Cheesesteaks
- Parks Meat Market
- East Atlanta Treehouse
- A Taste of Secrets
- Metro Deli
- Retro Deli Grill
- Vieux Carré Bistro
- Earl of Sandwich Shop
- S&H Produce
“First and foremost, working with Invest Atlanta has not only been easy, but a blessing,” said Amy Mugar of Philly G Steaks. “The grant money will be used to make our booth more efficient, professional, cohesive to our other locations, and a better experience for our customers. As a small business owner, it is a struggle sometimes to obtain funding or assistance, so this will help us go forward with our business and grow.”
For more information about Invest Atlanta small business resources, visit InvestAtlanta.com/smallbusiness.