washington business
Local organizers talked about plans to expand the tournament ’ s impact beyond the host cities . Leo Flor , chief legacy officer with Seattle ’ s World Cup organizing committee , said the group is working to establish fan zones around the state to provide large public spaces for fans to gather to watch matches . “ We see this as a statewide opportunity ,” Flor said . The delegation also heard how Seattle and Vancouver airports are preparing for World Cup visitors . Port of Seattle Commissioner Toshiko Grace Hasegawa highlighted Sea-Tac Airport ’ s expanded International Arrivals Terminal that opened in 2022 .
Former Gov . Christine Gregoire led a panel on the Cascadia Innovation Corridor , a cross-border partnership that brings together leaders from Washington , Oregon and British Columbia to create the world ’ s first sustainable mega-region .
The World Cup will be a huge opportunity to showcase the Cascadia region , Gregoire said .
“ If we do it right , they ’ ll come back ,” she said . “ At our doorstep is one of the greatest opportunities ever .”
‘ a lot of energy and positivity ’
The trade mission also explored collaborations on energy , workforce and housing . B . C .’ s Simon Fraser University is working to launch the Clean Hydrogen Hub , which recently received $ 10 million in funding from the Canadian government .
“ At our doorstep is one of the greatest opportunities ever .”
— Former Gov . Christine Gregoire , speaking during the trade mission about the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup , in which both Seattle and Vancouver , B . C . will host matches
34 association of washington business