Philadelphia has been selected as one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which presents a great opportunity for black-owned businesses. With an estimated 5 million visitors expected to descend on Philadelphia during the tournament, there will be a huge demand for goods and services. Black-owned businesses that are able to tap into this demand could reap significant rewards. Here are five opportunities for black businesses in Philadelphia during the World Cup:
1) Food and beverage vendors; 2) Transportation providers; 3) Retailers selling souvenirs and fan gear; 4) Event planners and organizers; 5) Hospitality providers.
If you’re a black-owned business in Philadelphia, now is the time to start planning how you can take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Did you know that FunTimes Magazine printed a comprehensive list of Black-owned businesses (commissioned by Beech Companies and the Commerce Department) for the Philadelphia area? Join the list here
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will be the first time the World Cup is held in three countries and the first time it is held in North America since 1994. The games will be played in 16 cities across the three countries, with Philadelphia hosting games at Lincoln Financial Field.
5 opportunities for Black Businesses
1. The World Cup provides an excellent opportunity for black-owned businesses to get involved in the local economy.
2. Black-owned businesses can provide services such as catering, transportation, and lodging for visitors from out of town.
3. World Cup visitors will be looking for souvenirs and gifts to take home, and black-owned businesses can provide unique items that represent Philadelphia and its culture.
4. The World Cup will also bring media attention to Philadelphia, and black-owned businesses can use this opportunity to promote their products and services to a broader audience.
5. Finally, the World Cup provides an opportunity for black-owned businesses to form partnerships with local and international businesses, which can lead to future opportunities for growth.
This article is made in collaboration with Broke in Philly.
Dr. Eric John Nzeribe is the Publisher of FunTimes Magazine and has a demonstrated history of working in the publishing industry since 1992. His interests include using data to understand and solve social issues, narrative stories, digital marketing, community engagement, and online/print journalism features. Dr. Nzeribe is a social media and communication professional with certificates in Digital Media for Social Impact from the University of Pennsylvania, Digital Strategies for Business: Leading the Next-Generation Enterprise from Columbia University, and a Master of Science (MS) in Publication Management from Drexel University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Temple University.
