BC Business House reports lasting economic gains from FIFA World Cup connections

BC Business House, a series of business-focused events held during the FIFA World Cup 2026, has helped attract investment and create new international trade relationships, according to the provincial government.

The province says more than 2,300 people from 25 countries attended BC Business House events, helping open new international markets as part of British Columbia’s Look West strategy.

“At a time of growing global uncertainty, it has never been more important to help B.C. businesses build lasting economic connections with international leaders and investors,” said Adrian Dix, acting minister of jobs and economic growth.

“BC Business House was another important way we continue to help businesses reach customers in new, diverse markets so they can grow and create more good jobs for people in communities throughout our province and be less reliant on the U.S.”

During the seven World Cup matches hosted at BC Place, BC Business House brought together provincial government representatives, business leaders, international investors and visiting delegations to explore trade, investment and partnership opportunities.

The events highlighted key sectors targeted for growth under the Look West strategy, including technology, life sciences, mining, energy, agriculture and food processing, tourism, and trade and logistics infrastructure.

“For five exciting weeks, Vancouver was at the centre of the sporting world, introducing our city and province to millions of viewers and thousands of visitors from around the globe,” said Bridgitte Anderson, president and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

“We appreciate the Province’s efforts to leverage this unique opportunity through BC Business House, creating a venue for business leaders, investors and international delegates to connect, showcase British Columbia’s strengths and explore opportunities for future collaboration.”

According to a post-event survey, 91.5 per cent of attendees rated their experience positively, while 81 per cent said they successfully established new business connections. Another 88.5 per cent said BC Business House improved perceptions of British Columbia as a place to do business.

“Hosting major international events strengthens B.C.’s reputation as a premier destination, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 was a once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance our Look West Tourism Sector Action Plan,” said Anne Kang, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport.

“Having successfully showcased B.C.’s natural beauty, world-class hospitality and commitment to sustainable growth, we’re turning this into benefits for British Columbians, including investment in communities, good jobs and increased tourism revenues to help fund essential programs we all rely on.”

The province said BC Business House was designed to help increase exports to markets outside the United States while attracting private-sector investment as part of the broader Look West strategy.