Fort Worth is, of course, many things. From big-time cattle business to world-class art, the culture of Cowtown/Funky Town, is one that is clearly attractive to many people, evidenced by the boom in population in recent years.
Fort Worth ranks as high as 10th in the United States with now over a million people. Those folks need to be entertained, and clearly what the city is doing is working.
This includes being a top-notch sports town, prompting the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce (FWC) to host its first Economic Impact Forum of 2026. “The Power of Sports in Fort Worth” will take place from 8:30–11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15 at the Kimbell Art Museum.
The event will feature panel discussions and conversations with local leaders as they explore how sports create economic opportunity, attract visitors, and strengthen Fort Worth’s business community. “In Fort Worth, sports represent far more than entertainment — they’re a meaningful economic engine for businesses of all sizes. From Western sports and major professional events to global moments like the World Cup, these opportunities drive tourism, increase foot traffic, and generate demand across hospitality, retail, transportation, and professional services,” FWC President and CEO Steve Montgomery said.
“Visit Fort Worth and its Sports Commission play a vital role in attracting and securing these events, creating real opportunities for local businesses to participate, prepare, and benefit. As the Chamber, it’s our role to help Fort Worth’s business community understand how these opportunities translate into real economic impact — and how businesses can position themselves to benefit from the growth they create.”
The program includes: *Inside Fort Worth’s Equestrian and Rodeo System: Moderated by Pam Minick, acclaimed broadcaster, rodeo champion, and beloved figure in the Western sports world. This panel will feature leaders from major equestrian and rodeo sports organizations that call Fort Worth home. A timely conversation with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo opening the next day.
*Preparing Fort Worth Businesses for FIFA World Cup 2026: Visit Fort Worth Chief Operating Officer Mitch Whitten will provide an update on regional preparations, projected economic impacts and ways businesses can position themselves to benefit from increased global attention.
*Professional Sports and Regional Economic Impact: Dallas Mavericks President Ethan Casson and Dickies Arena General Manager Matt Homan will discuss how hosting major professional sports in Fort Worth creates economic opportunity through collaboration between venues, teams, and the surrounding business community.
Other forum participants include: *Lauren Lovelace Murray, Executive Vice President, Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. *Tim Long, General Manager, Cowtown Coliseum. *Emily Konkel, Executive Director, National Reined Cow Horse Association. *Kurt Crawford, Interim CEO, American Paint Horse Association.
Cost to attend the event is $10 for FWC members and $40 for non-members. This includes light breakfast bites, along with coffee and other beverages provided during the pre-program reception.
Deadline to register is at 12 noon Wednesday, Jan. 14. To register, click this link:
