FIFA 2026: A $10 Billion Opportunity Transforming U.S. Cities



FIFA 2026 is not just about soccer. It’s about concrete, steel, asphalt, transit lines, and the sheer force of economic momentum. With 11 U.S. cities preparing to welcome the world, we’re looking at one of the largest federally supported infrastructure expansions tied to a sports event in American history.

Billions are already flowing into new stadiums, airport upgrades, hotel expansions, transit overhauls, and digital infrastructure projects. From Los Angeles to New York, the next two years are going to reshape how cities function and how contractors do business.

But here’s the real headline. The tournament may only last a month, but the contracts being issued now will impact cities for decades.

The Money Behind the Boom

Early estimates peg the total investment around 10 billion dollars. That includes both public and private sector spending. A significant portion of these funds is earmarked for public construction projects, which means federal compliance rules will apply. That means prevailing wage laws, certified payroll, workforce diversity reporting, and insurance coverage that checks every box.

Cities are tapping into federal recovery funds, local economic stimulus programs, and state infrastructure budgets to fund everything from light rail extensions to stadium HVAC overhauls. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity for firms that are prepared  and a minefield for those who aren’t.

What This Means for Contractors

If you’re in construction, civil engineering, electrical, plumbing, or transit, the window to get involved is open. But it’s a narrow one.

Agencies are prioritizing pre-qualified, fully compliant contractors who already have the right licenses, bonds, insurance policies, and certified payroll systems in place. This is not the time to wing it or wait. Most city agencies are operating on aggressive timelines, and a single compliance error could knock a contractor off the bid list for good.

And if you’re thinking this won’t affect smaller subs or niche trades  think again. FIFA projects are massive webs of subcontracted work, and oversight agencies will be auditing every level of the chain.

More Than Soccer: Legacy Projects and City Pride

For many cities, this is also about legacy. Atlanta wants to use the tournament to modernize its airport. Dallas is eyeing mass transit improvements. Kansas City is focused on urban mobility. These aren’t just soccer investments, they’re civic transformations. They’re also high-visibility projects, which means enforcement will be stricter and mistakes more costly.

This is where Public Works Consultant comes in. We help contractors, compliance officers, and city planners prepare for the spotlight. Our services aren’t just about avoiding penalties. They’re about building a track record that gets you invited to the next project and the next city.

Why Now Is the Moment

Most host cities already have timelines in motion. Bidding windows are open, reporting systems are going live, and internal audits are ramping up. Whether your business is based in one of the 11 cities or in a neighboring state looking to support the boom, the time to act is now.

Getting ahead of your compliance game is no longer optional. It’s your ticket to participate in the biggest infrastructure moment since the interstate highway expansion. Contractors who wait risk getting left on the sidelines.

Your Next Step

Whether you’re a prime contractor aiming for large-scale bids or a small subcontractor trying to get noticed, preparation is everything. Public Works Consultant offers compliance audits, reporting support, certified payroll setup, and insurance guidance tailored to public infrastructure work. We make sure you’re not just qualified but confident when you submit that bid.

Let’s get your firm FIFA-ready. Reach out to us today for a compliance readiness consultation and claim your place in this historic wave of opportunity.

Kaitlin Prieto

Business Development Manager

Kaitlin Prieto has been a dedicated member of our Sales department since
November 2021, connecting clients with labor compliance experts. With 22
years of customer service experience and four years in various management,
implementation, and sales positions, Kaitlin brings a wealth of knowledge
and expertise to her role. As a Business Development Manager, she excels in
helping clients navigate the complexities of public works projects, ensuring
they feel secure and confident in outsourcing essential aspects of their
business.

Kaitlin’s contributions are crucial to the success and satisfaction of our clients.
She helps demystify labor compliance and certified payroll processes,
allowing clients to focus on growing their businesses. One of her proudest
achievements was leading a team to create protocols and open local offices
at her previous employer, significantly enhancing their implementation and
sales operations.

Outside of work, Kaitlin enjoys spending time with her three children,
engaging in outdoor activities, yoga, travel, and live music. She lives by the
motto, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” and looks
forward to growing with the company and leading the sales team to support
clients with their prevailing wage projects across the country. A memorable
experience for Kaitlin was attending the LCP Tracker Conference in San
Antonio, where she bonded with her team of certified payroll professionals,
learned valuable insights, and connected with clients old and new.

Thank you so much for all you have done for us, Kaitlin. I simply can’t put into words the amount of stress and worry you have removed from us. Thank you, Thank you!
Erin Shea-Jarick
Office Administrator

Karissa Scott

President

Karissa Scott is the CEO and Founder of Public Works Consultant, a fullservice labor compliance company dedicated to assisting contractors of all
sizes. With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, Karissa
transformed her family’s business by overhauling their labor compliance
processes.

In 2015, recognizing the increasing complexities and technological
advancements in labor compliance, she ventured into entrepreneurship to
provide public works compliance consultants to contractors. By employing
the best certified payroll experts, Davis-Bacon compliance specialists, and
certified payroll professionals, she has helped clients achieve full compliance
and peace of mind for their construction companies.

Under her leadership, Public Works Consultant ensures clients are fully
compliant with all project regulations. Karissa is passionate about making
labor compliance a seamless experience for contractors, allowing them to
focus on their core business operations.

I'm really glad I found your company years ago because your services have been perfect for what we need. We haven't had many prevailing wage projects as of late, but when we do have them and I send you our documents, you guys are right on it. I appreciate your help, and I've had a great experience working with you. Thank you!
Maria Madrueno
Accounting and Human Resources Manager, Energy House
I just wanted to genuinely thank you. You’ve been a rockstar with our account, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. I know that it’s been a bit challenging with our lack of knowledge and unique processes with PW, but your flexibility has truly been amazing and made things run smoother behind the scenes. Thank you for your efforts and I really look forward to continuing our work together!
Meghan Conover
HR Supervisor, LightWerks Communication Systems, Inc.