In partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Minority Enterprise Development Week (MEDWeek), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) hosted its 9th Annual PHL Business Opportunity Forum, where small and diverse businesses in the Philadelphia region gathered to understand the dynamics of doing business at the airport, hear about anticipated opportunities, and network with leadership and other contractors. PHL hosted approximately 300 attendees, with the aim of connecting them to resources and airport opportunities that can help their firms grow.

This year, the forum focused on contracting opportunities, successful partnerships and increasing representation. The event included an opening session, 10 breakout sessions, and a Q&A closing session, while also offering a resource partner expo and speed-networking. Participants were able to hear from dynamic speakers from the City of Philadelphia's Division of Aviation and its partners.

PHL CEO Chellie Cameron kicked off the opening session, speaking about the state of PHL, the recent upward tick of travel after the COVID-19 pandemic and the focus on innovation and giving travelers an even better experience than before. Cameron welcomed panelists PHL Director of Air Service Development and Cargo Services Stephanie Wear, UPS Air Division Manager Lauren Carroll, and AFCO President and Chief Executive Officer Chuck Stipancic to discuss cargo opportunities at PHL.

As part of the forum, attendees participated in a Resource Partner Expo with COMTO Philadelphia, the Enterprise Center, the Greater Philadelphia Asian American Chamber of Commerce and Temple Small Business Development Center. Various breakout sessions, including Construction Roundtables and Sustainability at the Airport, were led by PHL executives and regional leaders. Following the breakout sessions, Deputy Director for Diversity and Inclusion Kathleen Padilla led a Q&A session which focused on answering participants’ questions and kicking off the live virtual networking to close out the program.

For more 2021 Business Opportunity Forum content, resources and opportunities, click here.