Gateway 2 Concessions
Gateway 2 Concessions is SMBR's branded initiative designed to promote inclusive participation in the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s concessions program. Serving as the public-facing identity of our Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program, this initiative underscores our commitment to creating a meaningful entry point, "gateway" for small, underutilized, and disadvantaged businesses to grow within the bustling AUS environment.
About the Airport Concessions Disadvantaed
Business Enterprise Program (ACDBE)
The ACDBE Program is a federal program applicable to airports that receive federal funds through grants from the FAA.
The Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) Program is a federal initiative established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The program is designed to level the playing field for small businesses owned and controlled 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 the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) by certifying eligible businesses, supporting outreach efforts, spearheading engagement, and ensuring compliance with federal DBE requirements. Through this work, SMBR advances equitable access to concession opportunities and strengthens the presence of diverse businesses within the airport’s commercial ecosystem.
While the ACDBE Program is national in scope, SMBR’s administration plays a crucial role in supporting small and local businesses in accessing federally funded airport concession contracts. The program’s focus is to identify and remove historic barriers in the concessionaire sector, particularly those impacting small, local and underserved businesses.
ACDBE News and Program Updates
- Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series
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Are you interested in becoming a concessionaire at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)?
Whether you're just beginning to explore the process or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, the Gateway 2 Concessions initiative is launching a focused September workshop series to get you runway-ready. Hosted by the City of Austin’s Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR), the “Prep Course” Series is designed to give prospective concessionaires the tools and insight they need to successfully navigate the unique business environment of airport concessions.
Austin’s airport serves over 22 million travelers each yearand 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
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 (ACDBE) 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.
More Information and registration at bit.ly/Gateway2Concessions
- Active Procurements
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RFCP 8100 CT2025-01-AUS West Gate Expansion and Concourse M Concessions for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Barbara Jordan Passenger Terminal
The City of Austin (City) Aviation Department (Aviation) is seeking responses from experienced, creative, highly motivated, and responsible Proposers to establish an exciting Concession for leasing, developing, marketing, and managing grab-and-go food service, convenience retail, and vending.
Due Date: December 8, 2025 by 5 pm CST
Contacts:
Shawn Willett shawn.willett@austintexas.gov
Darralyn Johnson Darralyn.johnson@flyaustin.com- Request access if needed.
- The Pro Forma excel sheet must be downloaded to your workspace.
- Go to “File” and click "Create a Copy; download a copy."
- Please enter data on your local copy and then submit with your proposal.