PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Jim Kenney was among the speakers who addressed more than 500 attendees at the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) Annual Business Opportunity Forum today at the Airport Marriott Hotel. The participants included representatives of large firms and small businesses, and minority-owned and disadvantaged business enterprises and organizations that provide services to businesses both small and large. The event was the first among the City’s upcoming Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week activities.
Participants in the Forum engaged in round table discussions focused on connecting small and diverse businesses with opportunities at the Airport, doing business at PHL, and were inspired by success stories told by diverse firms. PHL executives and regional and local business leaders were on hand for networking and responding to individual questions.
“Philadelphia has experienced a robust job growth rate, spurred by a thriving business community of which Philadelphia International Airport is a cornerstone,” said Mayor Kenney. “This Forum plays an important role in supporting firms within the region and, more specifically, it provides a tremendous opportunity for small and diverse businesses.”
In addition to Mayor Kenney, speakers included Airport CEO Chellie Cameron, U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, and City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson as well as members of the PHL executive staff and business partners.
“The opportunities for businesses of all sizes at a major airport like ours are substantial and diverse,” Cameron said. “This Forum is ideal for learning about PHL’s project opportunities, including environment and sustainability, civil projects, goods, terminal projects, IT, security, concessions and much more. We are excited to share all of the dynamic work available at the Airport.”
From October 7-11, Philadelphia celebrates Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, which highlights minority businesses and connects them to resources that can help their firms grow. Throughout the week, organizations from across the region will host more than 35 events, including educational workshops, interactive panel discussions, one-on-one coaching and more. A full list can be found at www.phila.gov/med-week.
Philadelphia International Airport is owned and operated by the City of Philadelphia. The Airport is a self-sustaining entity that operates without the use of local tax dollars. It is one of the largest economic engines in Pennsylvania, generating an estimated $15.4 billion in spending annually and supporting more than 96,300 full-time jobs for the 11-county Philadelphia MSA.