On October 2, the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation hosted its 14th Annual Business Opportunity Forum (BOF), “Where Opportunity Takes Off: 2026 & Beyond,” at the Philadelphia Airport Marriott. The event brought together business owners, corporate executives, and local officials to explore ways local companies can engage in significant upcoming projects at both Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE).

The event featured local city and state representatives, including City of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, Philadelphia City Councilmember –At-Large Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Delaware County Council Chair Richard Womack, and State Representative Regina G. Young. Attendees connected with policymakers and learned about new Philadelphia programs, initiatives, and resources designed to support business growth and opportunity.

“Celebrating small and local businesses is the anchor of my administration and what we plan to deliver,” said Parker. “We used every tool in the toolbox to give everyone access to economic opportunities. PHL and PNE are major economic engines of the region, contributing $18 billion in economic impact; Philadelphia businesses and residents are part of this growth. Everyone should have access to opportunities, resources, and information on how to compete to do business with the city and the airport.”

Parker encouraged businesses to attend the City of Philadelphia's Maximizing Economic Development (MED) week, October 5–9. The week of events helps business owners access valuable resources, guidance, and support through more than 40 events and workshops.

“Fourteen years ago, my team and I observed Business Opportunity Forums in other cities and recognized the value of bringing a similar initiative to PHL,” said Department of Aviation Interim CEO Tracy Borda. “Our goal is to help businesses better understand the airport contracting process, build meaningful connections, and ensure attendees leave informed, inspired, and aware of the contract opportunities and partnerships that align with their capabilities.”

Innovate: New City Programs, Initiatives and Resources 

City of Philadelphia Procurement Commissioner Ron Hovey spoke about how the Procurement Department helps the City obtain the materials and services it needs to serve residents. Hovey focused on identifying challenges and creating solutions for measurable procurement outcomes. Nadir Jones, Director of the City of Philadelphia's Office of Business Impact and Economic Advancement (BIEA), spoke about how his department creates and manages policies and programs to expand access to City contracting and foster business growth. Lily Reynolds, Director of Federal Infrastructure Strategy for the City’s Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, spoke about the Geographic and Economic Hiring Preferences (GEHP) and the Infrastructure Solutions Team (IST), providing an overview of GEHP guidelines and emphasizing the criteria businesses must meet under the program.  

“This year’s BOF was our largest ever, with nearly 500 attendees,” said Deatrice Issac, Department of Aviation Vice President of Procurement. “The forum continues to grow each year, attracting new firms and strengthening its impact across the local business community. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding this annual event reflect the value it brings to attendees. We’re grateful for the positive feedback we receive and proud to provide access to information, connections, and resources that attendees find truly invaluable.”

Include: Economic Opportunity for All – DBE, ACDBE, SBE, LBE Federal and Local Programs 

Denise Bailey, Principal of Bailey White Solutions, LLC, moderated the “Economic Opportunity for All” session. Panelists included Sherrise Rowe, Department of Aviation Director of Federal Contracting Initiatives, and Lynn Newsome, City of Philadelphia Deputy Director for the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). Attendees explored economic opportunities through programs including Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), Small Business Enterprise (SBE), and Local Business Enterprise (LBE), created to help diverse, small, and local businesses succeed. The speakers focused on contracts, small businesses, and expanding workers' access to jobs.

Inspire: Spotlight on Small & Local Businesses 

Department of Aviation Manager for Service, Supply, and Equipment Contracts Shawneese Brown moderated the “Spotlight on Small and Local Businesses” session. Small and local business owners at PHL shared inspiring stories about their work and growth. Panelists included Minuteman Press Owner Jude Arijaje, SALT Design Studio Owner Sara Pevaroff, Toyin Alli Puddin/Lafayette’s and Smith Flooring, Inc. owner Angelique Hunter. The panelists shared their experiences working with the airport, attending PHL’s concessions academy, and staying inspired in their business pursuits.  

Initiate: Focus on Upcoming Airport Opportunities 

The “Focus on Upcoming Airport Opportunities” session was moderated by Department of Aviation Manager of Professional Services Contracts Courtney Henderson, and included speakers from various airport divisions who shared upcoming opportunities:

• Milton Robinson, Department of Aviation Vice President of Facilities Maintenance 

• Chris Dougherty, Department of Aviation Vice President of Operations & Security

• Stacey Lennon, Department of Aviation Vice President of Talent Management 

• Inaya Mander, Department of Aviation Director of Marketing 

• Ashley Vesay, MarketPlacePHL Leasing Manager 

• Imad Haq, Department of Aviation Airport Engineering Manager 

• Lou Fabritiis, Hill International Senior Project Manager 

• Mike Morris, Department of Aviation Vice President of IT Client Services 

Attendees began and ended the forum networking with City agencies and other businesses.

For information on contracting opportunities with the Department of Aviation, visit phl.org/business/contracting-opportunities.
For information on contracting Opportunities with the City of Philadelphia, visit the City's Procurement Department website.