Atlanta Entrepreneurs Get World Cup 2026™ Ready at Beltline Business Breakfast
- Business News
Earlier this spring, local entrepreneurs gathered at Pittsburgh Yards® for the latest Business Breakfast, where the conversation centered on collaboration, capital and how to support small businesses both ahead of World Cup 2026™ and long after the final whistle blows.
The panel—moderated by Natalie Jones, Project Manager for the Atlanta Beltline Business Solutions Office—featured Kelvin Collins, Vice President of Economic Development at the Beltline, Neha Jaeel, Director of Small Business Sales at Visa, and Amichi Bertrand, Founder of the Atlanta Indie Market Experience.
The biggest takeaway? Atlanta's small business community does not have to go at it alone.
Atlanta’s Small Business Ecosystem
Just five years ago, the Beltline did not have a Business Solutions Office. Today, it works with a variety of partners to connect entrepreneurs with the resources and capital they need to grow.
Collins encouraged business owners to tap into commercial district organizations along the corridor and build relationships with neighboring businesses, noting that Atlanta's collaborative spirit is a reason major corporations choose to locate here.
Bertrand, who has been producing pop-up markets along the Beltline since 2016, learned that successful collaboration is something that takes patience and extends far beyond a single event. He advised vendors to post together, go live together, and harness collective community energy.
“The city burned down. We rebuilt it,” he said. “Atlanta makes a place where everyone can be themselves, and that's the culture.”
Get the Bag
A standout moment came when Collins broke down his framework for success: telling small businesses to “get the bag.”
Before the World Cup, focus on preparation. Attend events, gather information, connect with Invest Atlanta programs, and register with Showcase Atlanta.
During matches, strengthen branding, enhance storefronts, and build a strong social media presence to capture visitors. Finally, plan for continued growth by building systems and operations that position you for future major events.
“It’s not just about getting the money,” Collins said. “It's about structuring your business in a way that truly sets you up for long-term success.”
Collins also announced the inaugural Beltline Fest for World Cup fans on Beltline-owned land adjacent to Pittsburgh Yards® in partnership with the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The major activation will offer small businesses opportunities as vendors, alongside potential activations along nearby commercial corridors to create connected, authentic Atlanta experiences.
Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to submit this interest form and complete a business assessment early.
Stay Connected
Get your business ready! Explore the Beltline Business Readiness Toolkit for the World Cup here.
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