Atlanta, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta has allocated $925,000 in funding to support small businesses as the city prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This funding includes $250,000 for Small Business Improvement Grants to help businesses with necessary updates. Five businesses have already been awarded $50,000 each, with an additional $500,000 available for microgrants aimed at filling vacant commercial spaces. The initiative highlights the city’s commitment to enhancing local economies during significant events such as the upcoming World Cup.
Atlanta has approved $925,000 in Tax Allocation District (TAD) funding aimed at supporting small businesses as the city prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This initiative comes in recognition of the crucial role small businesses play in bolstering the local economy, particularly during significant events like the upcoming World Cup.
Of the total funding, $250,000 will be dedicated to Small Business Improvement Grants, which assist eligible businesses in making both interior and exterior improvements. These enhancements include signage, lighting, storefront upgrades, and repairs necessary for code compliance, all designed to attract and retain customers.
Since 2022, Invest Atlanta has provided over $30 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance to support small businesses. As part of this ongoing initiative, five businesses have already been awarded $50,000 each through the Small Business Improvement Grant Program. These businesses include:
- Bottle Rocket Fine Food & Beverage, to upgrade a commercial property at 231 Mitchell St. SW.
- Big Daddy’s Kitchen, located at 3085 Campbellton Rd, SW, which aims to revitalize its space.
- Crate’s, a music store at 215 Mitchell St SW, looking to modernize its historic building.
- Strikeout Wingz, moving to a new location at 2061 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW for upgrades.
- Subs & Salads Junction, which has been in operation for 30 years at 76 Forsyth St. SW, receiving funds for necessary improvements.
Additionally, the Downtown Small Business World Cup Opportunity Fund will provide another $500,000 in support of microgrants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for businesses that can fill vacant commercial spaces in Downtown Atlanta. This microgrant program will be administered by Central Atlanta Progress, a partner organization focused on downtown development.
Part of the funding, up to $175,000 from the Hollowell/ML King TAD, will be allocated for the construction of a StationSoccer facility at the HE Holmes MARTA Station. This facility is designed to support youth soccer programming and social development, further enhancing community engagement.
These initiatives are integral to Atlanta’s broader strategy to revitalize its downtown area and create a welcoming environment for the influx of tourists expected during the FIFA World Cup. The city recognizes that small businesses are pivotal to the economic health of the area, particularly in the context of such major events.
Atlanta’s Mayor Andre Dickens, who also chairs Invest Atlanta, underscores the importance of strategic funding in fostering opportunities for local businesses, highlighting the city’s commitment to economic vitality and community development.
FAQ
How much funding has Atlanta approved for small businesses in preparation for the FIFA World Cup?
The City of Atlanta has approved $925,000 in Tax Allocation District (TAD) funding to support small businesses in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What is the purpose of the Small Business Improvement Grants?
$250,000 of the funding will be allocated for Small Business Improvement Grants aimed at assisting eligible businesses with interior and exterior improvements.
What types of improvements are covered by the grants?
How much has Invest Atlanta provided to small businesses since 2022?
Since 2022, Invest Atlanta has provided over $30 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance to small businesses.
What is the significance of the Downtown Small Business World Cup Opportunity Fund?
The Downtown Small Business World Cup Opportunity Fund will provide an additional $500,000 to support microgrants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for businesses that can fill vacant commercial spaces in Downtown Atlanta.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Funding Approved | $925,000 |
| Funding for Improvement Grants | $250,000 |
| Number of Grants Awarded | 5 businesses awarded $50,000 each |
| Microgrant Program Funding | $500,000 available |
| Support for Youth Development Facility | $175,000 for StationSoccer facility construction |
| Overall Economic Impact | Crucial for small business health during major events |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta Daily World
- Wikipedia: Small Business
- Saporta Report
- Google Search: Invest Atlanta
- WSB Radio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- Hoodline
- Google News: Small Business Funding Atlanta
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Small Business Funding
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
