Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and the City of Austin’s Small Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) have launched a new three-part series, Gateway 2 Concessions, to support small and minority-owned businesses interested in operating concessions at the airport.
This initiative is part of AUS’s Journey With AUS expansion program, which seeks to bring innovative and diverse small businesses into its concession spaces. The airport continues to experience significant growth, making it an attractive location for local brands seeking greater visibility among millions of travelers each year.
“We’re building the future of AUS, and we want small businesses to help shape that future,” said Ghizlane Badawi, AUS Chief Executive Officer. “This is a moment to elevate local brands in front of a global audience.”
The new program aims to integrate local business culture into the airport environment. Data from 2024 shows strong passenger engagement with local products: over 1 million tacos and more than 100,000 pounds of brisket were sold at AUS, along with thousands of locally themed shirts, highlighting travelers’ connection with Austin’s identity.
Edward Campos, Director of SMBR, emphasized the value of the new prep series for potential concessionaires. “Our upcoming series gives small, local, and diverse businesses a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the Airport Concessions business from industry experts,” Campos said. “We’re equipping our community of small businesses with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to secure a successful takeoff at AUS.”
The Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series includes three sessions:
– Gate 1 on September 3 offers a virtual workshop about the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program.
– Gate 2 on September 10 features insights from Cassandra Boseman, Principal Owner of ONE Enterprise Group. This in-person session will be facilitated by John Gallo (AUS Deputy Chief Officer) and Jolene Cochran (SMBR Program Manager).
– Gate 3 on September 17 focuses on business concepts and revenue contracts relevant to airport concessions.
The expansion program at AUS is expected to provide about $400 million in funding opportunities for small businesses as part of its ongoing improvements through projects like terminal optimization and infrastructure expansion. These developments are designed to address record-breaking passenger growth at one of America’s fastest-growing airports while also supporting regional economic recovery efforts. More information about these initiatives can be found at https://www.austintexas.gov/AUSJourney.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is owned by the City of Austin and operated by its Department of Aviation. The airport provides over 74,000 direct and indirect jobs in Central Texas and plays a key role in the region’s economy.
For additional information or registration details for Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series events, interested parties are encouraged to visit https://www.austintexas.gov/department/small-minority-business-resources.
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