FIFA Business Resource Hub

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber is launching a new FIFA Business Resource Hub to help local businesses prepare for and participate in this rare and unique opportunity. This hub provides practical tools, inspiration, and guidance for businesses interested in creating watch parties, themed promotions, visitor experiences, and community activations — while also helping navigate FIFA branding guidelines. Businesses can also find links to Visit Santa Barbara’s official tourism resources, event submissions, and promotional opportunities. From hospitality tips to activation ideas, the Chamber’s goal is to support local businesses in maximizing the economic and community benefits of this global event while helping the South Coast put its best foot forward.

Why Participate? The Santa Barbara South Coast is the training home to two teams during the World Cup – Austria and Qatar. The South Coast is uniquely positions between the two California host cities: Los Angeles and San Francisco who will host 14 matches combined. Millions of fans are expected to travel throughout California and many visitors may seek coastal escapes and less congested destinations between matches. Besides visitors, our local residents will be seeking family-friendly activations, watch parties, and community experiences to share in the World Cup excitement!

What Can You Do? Start planning now and share your plans with us and Visit Santa Barbara. Ideas for consideration:

Plan viewing experiences, cultural nights or fan zones on match days
Decorate your business with soccer themed decor or flags of your favorite team
Encourage staff to wear soccer gear, t-shirts or jerseys
Plan themed menus or drink specials
Consider soccer themed window displays

What Does This Mean For The Santa Barbara South Coast? The global spotlight is not just on California, but on the South Coast as training home for two World Cup teams. This provides a unique regional economic opportunity that can support local businesses, encourage community gatherings and cultural celebrations, and drive hospitality industry support and local spending.

RESOURCES:

Submit Your Event on the Chamber’s Event Calendar

Submit Your Event on the Visit Santa Barbara FIFA World Cup Microsite

Check out Where to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Santa Barbara

View matches on KEYT: Fox NewsChannel 11 & Telemundo. Interested in advertising around the matches, broadcast and digital, contact Vern.

Visit Santa Barbara FIFA One-Sheet

View FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Schedule

Understanding FIFA Guidelines when promoting your events and offers.
Safe Examples: