As you may already know, Los Angeles is about to become the global epicenter of sports entertainment. With the FIFA World Cup 26 arriving this summer and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games following shortly after, our region is preparing for an unprecedented influx of economic activity. For local business owners, these events represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity. The numbers speak for themselves – the World Cup is expected to generate approximately $3 billion in contract spending, while the Olympics could bring $11 billion or more. That’s $14 billion in economic activity flowing through Los Angeles within just a few years.

Understanding the contract landscape

It’s important to understand that while many contracts will come directly from hosting venues for the Global Games, there will be even more flowing through an extensive network of prime contractors, vendors and local agencies supporting these events. From infrastructure improvements and stadium operations to transportation and catering services, nearly every sector of the local economy will be touched. This is good news for small and mid-sized businesses, because it means there will be multiple entry points into the contract ecosystem, not just one gatekeeper. For example, a small landscaping company might secure work by subcontracting through a prime facilities management firm, or a local print shop could win a substantial contract through a prime marketing agency.

Businesses that wait too long to prepare for these opportunities may find themselves late to the game (no pun intended). The World Cup kicks off in June, so contract decisions are already underway. To help you get started, here is a simple framework for thinking about procurement readiness: Preparation, Qualification, and Submission & Engagement.

Preparation

Preparation begins with understanding how procurement works and what resources are available to help you navigate it. A great starting point is the Get in the Game LA Supplier Resource Hub, a free, centralized platform that consolidates contract-readiness resources and opportunities from a network of 20-plus L.A.-area organizations. As part of preparation, you should take time to familiarize yourself with procurement timelines, contract structures and the types of opportunities that align with your business. The more you understand the landscape, the better positioned you’ll be when opportunities arise.

Qualification

Qualification is about making sure your business meets the requirements that contracts demand. Start by pursuing certifications such as Small Business Enterprise (SBE) or Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) designations, which can give you a competitive edge. These certifications take time to process, so don’t wait until an opportunity arises to begin the applications. Next, assess your financial and insurance readiness. Larger contracts come with more stringent requirements, so review your general liability coverage and determine whether you need to increase limits. You should also make sure your financial systems – bookkeeping, invoicing and cash flow management – can handle the demands of bigger projects with longer payment cycles. Finally, develop a polished capability statement. This document clearly communicates who you are, what you do and why you’re the right partner, and it’s often your first impression with prime contractors and procurement officers. Highlight relevant past performance, your differentiators and key contact information. Keep it updated and ready to send at a moment’s notice.

Submission & engagement

Submission & Engagement is where preparation meets opportunity. Make sure to register with RAMP (the Regional Alliance Marketplace for Procurement), where many public contract opportunities are posted. This is an essential step for accessing solicitations and getting on the radar of prime contractors and agencies. You’ll also want to make sure your digital presence is strong. When a prime contractor or event organizer is vetting potential partners, they’ll look you up online. Your website should clearly communicate your services, showcase past work, and make it easy to get in touch. Your social media profiles, especially LinkedIn and Google Business, should be active, professional and consistent with your brand.

The timeline is tighter than you think

Many business owners assume they have plenty of time before these events arrive, but preparation for large-scale procurement happens well in advance of when opportunities become publicly visible. The FIFA World Cup 26 kicks off in June, and while opportunities will continue to emerge, businesses that are already prepared will be better positioned to respond quickly. The 2028 Olympics offer a longer runway, but the same principle applies – readiness is built over time. Businesses that invest early in understanding requirements, securing certifications, strengthening capabilities and raising their visibility with buyers will have more options as opportunities arise. The message is straightforward: don’t wait for a specific opportunity to start preparing. Build readiness now so that when contracts open, your business can compete with confidence.

Donald Jones is the chief growth officer at Next Street and coalition manager of Get in the Game, led by founding partners the Los Angeles Area of Chamber of Commerce, LISC LA, Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation and Next Street.