AUSTIN, TEXAS – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and the City of  Austin Small Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) announced today a new three-part prep series, Gateway 2 Concessions, designed to give prospective concessionaires the tools and insight they need to successfully navigate the unique business environment of airport concessions.

As part of AUS’s transformative Journey With AUS expansion program, the airport’s concession program is actively seeking innovative, diverse, and dynamic small businesses ready to bring their brands to one of the fastest-growing airports in the country.

“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.”

This is more than a business opportunity — it’s a chance to become part of a thriving travel community that reflects the culture, creativity, and spirit of Austin. With millions of passengers traveling through AUS each year, the new concession spaces present a unique platform for small businesses to gain major visibility and grow in an environment that celebrates local flavor and entrepreneurial energy.

And the numbers speak for themselves: in 2024, AUS travelers purchased over 1 million tacos and more than 100,000 pounds of brisket. Retail also played a strong role, with over 9,000 Tyler’s t-shirts and 7,000 Keep Austin Weird shirts sold —a reflection of how deeply travelers connect with the local culture and spirit of the city.

“Our upcoming series gives small, local, and diverse businesses a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the Airport Concessions business from industry experts,” said Edward Campos, Director of SMBR. We’re equipping our community of small businesses with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to secure a successful takeoff at AUS.”

Interested businesses are encouraged to attend upcoming informational sessions to learn how to navigate the airport’s concessionaire opportunities.

The Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series includes:

• Gate 1, Understanding the ACDBE Program, Sept. 3: This virtual workshop provides a foundational overview of the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program, including goal setting, certification steps, and the broader role this program plays in upcoming opportunities at AUS.
• Gate 2,  A Real Look into Concession Opportunities, Sept. 10: Hear directly from an experienced concessions operator and industry expert on what it takes to run a business in the airport—from day-to-day logistics to contract terms and long-term development.
  • Guest Speaker: Cassandra Boseman, Principal Owner, ONE Enterprise Group
  • Facilitators: John Gallo (AUS Deputy Chief Officer) and Jolene Cochran (SMBR Program Manager)
    Parties interested in attending Gate 2 | A Real Look Into Concession Operations must register and attend this in-person workshop.
• Gate 3, Business Concepts and Revenue Contracts, Sept. 17: This course will discuss understanding your business capabilities, ensuring you are certified in the correct NAICS codes and knowing what questions to ask prior to proposing on concession opportunities. This discussion will be led by one of the airport industry’s top ACDBE managers in aviation procurements.

Register here to attend the courses: Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series

For more information about the Journey With AUS Expansion Program and upcoming improvements, visit Austintexas.gov/AUSJourney.