Airport Experience® News - Leadership Issue 2025

hands-on learning experience,” says Knight. “Participants engage directly with airport officials, contractors and subject matter experts through multiple touchpoints, fostering deeper understanding and practical application of program content.” SEA continues to expand its footprint. “Whenever we’re doing a major remodel, we’re including some Sparks locations – either incubator or accelerator – as part of any new buildout,” says Van Horn. “This isn’t a stagnant program. It is always evolving.” Both AUS and DTW also see opportunity in cross-promotion and community visibility. AUS regularly updates its website and partners with publications and chambers to promote opportunities. It also hosts ongoing events such as Meet the Primes to connect local firms with potential collaborators. DTW launched its program in partnership with local leaders and maintains active relationships with local business organizations.

The Payoff The benefits of these efforts extend beyond program participants. Each airport is investing in a stronger pipeline of locally owned concepts, helping to shape terminal experiences that reflect the cities they serve. And with retail and food and beverage programs under constant pressure to deliver revenue and quality, a wider pool of educated, prepared concessionaires gives airport authorities greater flexibility. “The SOAR program came to fruition through the support of our CEO Chad Newton, the Wayne County Airport Authority Board and First Lady of Wayne County Renata Evans,” says Inniss Edwards. “We are excited about our next steps and the future of SOAR as a potential legacy program at DTW.” That same energy is driving AUS. “Our focus is on equipping small businesses with knowledge and confidence,” say Cochran and Gallo. “With the right tools and partners small businesses can grow into strong airport operators. That benefits everyone.” ATL has already seen success from its first cohort. “Several cohort members have submitted proposals for airport contracts and at least one participant has already secured a concession agreement,” says Knight. SEA is focused on flexibility and access. “If someone comes in and two months later they realize it’s not working, they can walk away without penalties,” says Van Horn. “It breaks down some of the traditional barriers to entry.” Several of these efforts arrive at a time of policy uncertainty. Recent shifts in federal guidance have raised questions about how long race- and gender-conscious programs will remain protected. Airports that continue to invest in education, mentorship and local partnerships help make sure that the pipeline of small business readiness grows stronger regardless of what comes next. The structure may change but the value of inclusion, done well and done early, continues to hold.

Below: The SPARKS program at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport offers five participation categories, each designed to match different levels of business readiness. Kick-starter kiosks (pictured) offer six month terms for early-stage entrepreneurs.

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AX NEWS DECEMBER 2025 / JANUARY 2026