Image for "Gateways 2 Concessions" featuring bold blue text with a square purple icon containing the number "2," followed by a large yellow arrow pointing to the right. The background is a blurred black-and-white image of people walking in what appears to be an airport terminal.

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 

 

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.

Whether you're ready to submit a proposal or still evaluating the possibilities, these workshops will equip you with the tools, insights, and connections needed to succeed at AUS. Want to be the first to know when registration opens? Sign up to the mailing list to receive updates, reminders, and priority access. 

Gatway to Concessions Opportunities Mailing List 

How to get ACDBE Certified 

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. Speak directly with SMBR staff and get your questions answered. Register here.

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. The process includes:

  • Creating a user profile
  • Uploading a signed W-9 form
  • Adding business details, addresses, and relevant commodity/NAICS codes

Once submitted, the application is reviewed by the City. Approved vendors can then respond to solicitations and manage their profile through AFO.

Step 3: Complete Your Application

Visit the certification portal and:

  • Click “Apply for Certification.”
  • Create an account.
  • Select the ACDBE prompts to begin your application.
  • Upload required business documentation.
  • Monitor for communications from SMBR for next steps.

Step 4: Maintaining Your Certification

ACDBE firms must submit an annual No Change Affidavit to confirm ongoing eligibility. This simple step is essential to remain active in the program.

Need Assistance?

Contact SMBR's Certification Division at (512) 974-7645 or via email SMBRCertification@austintexas.gov

Helpful Links and Resources 

 

SMBR’s Resources Division offers events, technical assistance, and one-on-one guidance to help businesses navigate the certification process, pursue opportunities at AUS, and connect with prime concessionaires. 

Calendar of Events

View updates and information on about the Journey with AUS Airport Expansion and Development Program. 

AEDP Information and Updates

View all of the City's open solicitations including: construction, electric utility, waste, general services, health and safety, facilities and grounds, information technology, industrial and MRO. 

Open Solicitations

Signup for the ACDBE mailing list and stay up-to-date on all the news and upcoming opportunities to do business at Austin Bergstrom International

Gatway 2 Concessions Mailing List


Recordings and Materials