Your local business could be the next success story at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The city is actively seeking small, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses to join the airport’s concessions program – and they’re providing the training and support to make it happen.
With over 22 million travelers passing through AUS each year and ongoing expansion plans, the opportunities are bigger than ever. Best part? The city wants businesses that reflect Austin’s unique character and culture.
What Gateway 2 Concessions Really Means
Gateway 2 Concessions is SMBR’s branded initiative designed to promote inclusive participation in Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s concessions program, serving as the public-facing identity of the Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program.
Translation: The city is actively working to level the playing field for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, helping them compete for airport concession opportunities as operators or suppliers.
The City of Austin’s Small and Minority Business Resources (SMBR) Department helps implement the ACDBE Program for AUS by certifying eligible businesses, supporting outreach efforts, spearheading engagement, and ensuring compliance with federal DBE requirements.
The Opportunities Are Huge
Austin’s airport serves over 22 million travelers each year and it’s still growing. As AUS expands, it’s seeking businesses that reflect Austin’s unique character and culture through high-quality food, beverage, retail, and personal service experiences.
Airport concessions include:
- Quick service restaurants and local eateries
- Coffee shops, bars, and lounges
- Gift shops, newsstands, and convenience retail
- Spas, grooming, wellness, and passenger services
This isn’t just about having a business at the airport – it’s about showcasing Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit to millions of visitors from around the world.
Free Training to Get You Ready
The city isn’t just posting opportunities and hoping for the best. They’re launching the “Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series” this September to give prospective concessionaires the tools and insight they need to successfully navigate airport concessions.
The Workshop Series:
Gate 1 – Understanding the ACDBE Program and Certification Process September 3 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Online (Zoom) Learn how the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program works and how certification can open doors.
Gate 2 – Behind the Takeoff: A Real Look Into Concession Operations
September 10 | 10:00 AM – Noon | In Person: Austin-Bergstrom Consolidated Maintenance Facility, 10100 Golf Course Rd., Austin, TX 78719 Hear from experienced concession operators and airport leaders about what it takes to thrive at AUS.
Gate 3 – Know Your Capabilities: What to Ask Before You Bid September 17 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Online (Zoom) Explore how to assess your business readiness and ask the right questions before you propose.
Gate 4 – The Truth About Financial Investments for Concessionaires Spring 2026 | Time TBD | Online (Zoom) This course provides a deeper dive into determining business financial capacity for selecting, building, and operating concessions.
How ACDBE Certification Opens Doors
ACDBE certification can open the door to new opportunities, especially if you’re looking to partner with prime contractors or expand into other airport markets. Certified businesses also gain access to specialized training, technical assistance, and a national network of airport business partners.
This isn’t just about Austin – ACDBE certification is recognized nationally, meaning success here could lead to opportunities at airports across the country.
The Four-Step Process
Step 1: Register and Attend SMBR’s Monthly Pre-certification Workshop This workshop is ideal for small businesses looking to become certified and increase their contracting opportunities with the City of Austin. Get guidance on the certification process, eligibility requirements, and how certification can connect you to contract opportunities, networking, and support services.
Step 2: Register as a Vendor with the City of Austin Vendors can register through Austin Finance Online (AFO) by creating an account and completing the online vendor registration form, including creating a user profile, uploading a signed W-9 form, and adding business details.
Step 3: Complete Your Application
Visit the certification portal, click “Apply for Certification,” create an account, select the ACDBE prompts to begin your application, upload required business documentation, and monitor for communications from SMBR.
Step 4: Maintaining Your Certification ACDBE firms must submit an annual No Change Affidavit to confirm ongoing eligibility.
Why This Matters for Austin’s Economy
The program focuses on identifying and removing historic barriers in the concessionaire sector, particularly those impacting small, local, and underserved businesses. When local businesses succeed at the airport, the entire Austin economy benefits.
Travelers experience authentic Austin culture, local businesses gain access to a massive customer base, and the city strengthens its reputation as a place where entrepreneurship thrives.
Getting Started Right Now
For immediate registration: More information and registration at bit.ly/Gateway2Concessions
Need assistance? Contact SMBR’s Certification Division at (512) 974-7645 or via email [email protected]
The September workshop series is your chance to get insider knowledge from people who’ve successfully navigated airport concessions. Don’t miss this opportunity to position your business for growth.
The Bottom Line
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport isn’t just expanding physically – it’s expanding opportunities for local businesses to grow alongside one of the fastest-growing airports in the country. The city is providing the training, support, and certification process to make it accessible.
Your business could be serving millions of travelers while showcasing what makes Austin special. The question isn’t whether these opportunities exist – it’s whether you’re ready to pursue them.
Ready to Get Started?
- Register for workshops: bit.ly/Gateway2Concessions
- Questions: (512) 974-7645 or [email protected]
- Certification portal: austintexas.mwdbe.com
The future of AUS concessions is being shaped right now. Make sure your business is part of it.
