Guadalajara Leverages World Cup 2026 to Boost Innovation, Jobs

As Guadalajara prepares to host four matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026, local institutions and businesses are positioning the event as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship across multiple sectors.

During the fifth edition of the Startup Building at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG), the masterclass “Beyond the Game – Building Ventures for the 2026 Boom” gathered local stakeholders to assess the economic and developmental potential tied to the international tournament. 

Estimates indicate that the tournament could generate between US$5 billion and US$7 billion for the local economy, says Montserrat Hidalgo, Host City Officer for Guadalajara, FIFA World Cup. Additionally, the event is expected to create over 40,000 direct and temporary jobs. With Guadalajara set to welcome more than 1 million visitors during the tournament, the city’s exposure on a global stage could significantly benefit industries including tourism, hospitality, transportation, gastronomy, and technology services.

“The World Cup is not just a sporting event, it is a platform to transform and accelerate entrepreneurship in our region,” says Hidalgo. She adds that the tournament presents an opportunity to address urban challenges through innovation, including infrastructure, sustainability, and public safety.

Proposed areas of development include real-time translation tools, augmented reality apps for tourism, crowd analytics for public security, and smart hospitality services. Waste management and sustainable materials are also central to the agenda.

Educational institutions are expected to play a central role in supporting these efforts. The UAG is exploring initiatives such as live innovation labs, university-business collaboration platforms, and applied research centers focused on mobility, safety, and user experience. The goal is to produce actionable data and train professionals in key areas such as logistics, technology, languages, and hospitality.

“If we are going to be on the world map, let it also be for our ability to innovate, educate and build,” says Carlos Leaño del Castillo, Vice President of Administration, UAG. He adds that strong collaboration among government, academia, and private institutions has helped strengthen Jalisco’s entrepreneurial environment in recent years.

Guadalajara’s hosting of the World Cup is expected to draw global media attention and increased investment, providing a unique platform to showcase regional culture and capacity for innovation. Organizers and university leaders alike see the event as a starting point for long-term transformation that could outlast the tournament itself.