In preparation for the FIFA World Cup 26™, the Invest Atlanta Board approved Tax Allocation District (TAD) funding to accelerate leasing opportunities for vacant and underutilized small commercial spaces in Downtown Atlanta.  

Administered by Central Atlanta Progress, the Downtown Small Business World Cup Opportunity Fund was created to support local, independent small businesses that want to take advantage of short- and long-term storefront leasing opportunities in the World Cup activity zone. Eastside and Westside TADs will fund strategic property improvement micro-grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to existing small business owners to increase equitable access to opportunities generated by the 2026 World Cup and other upcoming mega events.  

“Atlanta’s small businesses are the heartbeat of our city,” says A.J. Robinson, president of Central Atlanta Progress. “By investing in them, we are investing in the character of our neighborhood – something that will be on full display during major events like the World Cup. We’re proud to partner with Invest Atlanta on this important initiative.” 

The grant fund, along with Central Atlanta Progress’s relationships with Downtown property owners and businesses and support from Invest Atlanta, is expected to stimulate a sizeable lease-up of available retail and restaurant commercial space in Downtown ahead of the world’s most prestigious international soccer tournament.