Round 1—AMAC Runway to Success Supplier Pitch Competition took the Windy City by Storm!

On April 16, 2026, Chicago became the epicenter of aviation innovation. Led by the AMAC Chicago Chapter, we gathered to dismantle barriers and unlock unprecedented access, proving that when we intentionally bridge the gap between capital and opportunity, minority-owned enterprises don’t just participate in the process…they lead. This competition was more than a pitch; it was a powerful statement about the ingenuity, resilience, and executive excellence thriving within our diverse business community as we redefine what is possible in the … Read More

Meet the 2026 AMAC Board Candidates

We are pleased to share the official slate of candidates for the 2026 AMAC Board of Directors.  This group of leaders reflects the strength and expertise of our membership and represents a continued commitment to advancing AMAC’s mission of advancing the full participation of minorities and women in employment and contracting opportunities throughout the aviation and aerospace industries.    2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS SLATE OF CANDIDATES   CHAIR  Ricky Smith, General Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport    SECOND VICE-CHAIR  Marlene Coleman, Director, Strategic Alliance, Areas USA  Shelia Hudson, CEO, Hudson and Associates  Perry Miller, President … Read More

Round 1—AMAC Runway to Success Supplier Pitch Competition Took Off in Detroit

On March 26, 2026, Detroit showed up—and the future of this industry was on full display. We are proud to announce the businesses advancing to the next round of the AMAC Runway to Success Pitch Competition: 🥇 First Place – Saint Martin | Sebastian Jackson & Gabrielle Jackson 🥈 Second Place – Spice King International Corp | Keith Lorren 🥉 Third Place – Hunnyverse | Doug Schwartz 🏅 Fourth Place – Belle Lavande Lavender Farm, LLC | Windy Mack & … Read More

Project LIFT Takes Flight at Martin State Airport and the Maryland Aerospace Heritage Center

On March 17, 2026, the AMAC Foundation’s Project Leaders Inspiring Future Talent (LIFT) event brought students face-to-face with the world of aviation at Martin State Airport (MTN) and the Maryland Aerospace Heritage Center. Through a guided airport tour led by MTN staff, participants explored aircraft operations, facilities, and the future site of the air traffic control tower while gaining a deeper understanding of aviation environments. At the Maryland Aerospace Heritage Center, students engaged in dynamic speed-networking sessions with professionals across … Read More

Recap: 2026 AMAC Economic Opportunity & Policy Forum

We recently hosted the 2026 AMAC Economic Opportunity & Policy Forum from March 18–20, 2026, in Washington, DC. Thank you to our members, sponsors and partners for making this year’s forum a powerful and impactful convening for aviation industry leaders, policymakers and small businesses committed to advancing opportunity and access. You can view the event photos here.   Day 1: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 The forum began with AMAC’s Capitol Hill Day, bringing members together at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center for … Read More

2025 Year in Review: Our Top Achievements

Membership Strengthened our national footprint by growing membership by 4%, welcoming new members across airports, businesses and agencies, expanding our collective influence and reinforcing a unified voice for fairness, opportunity and leadership across the aviation industry.   Launched the AMAC Houston Chapter—cementing it as AMAC’s 8th Chapter.   Onboarded Tia Perry as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Membership at AMAC, where she leads the Membership and Sponsorship teams.   Launched the Member Resource Library—a dedicated space equipping AMAC … Read More

2025 AMAC Advocacy Actions: Protecting Access and Advancing Opportunity

As we reflect on 2025, AMAC advanced a robust advocacy agenda to strengthen opportunities for minority and women-owned small businesses and ensure fair implementation of federal regulatory programs. This year marked a significant policy win with the preservation of the FAR Part 19 “Rule of Two,” a critical federal contracting safeguard that ensures small and disadvantaged businesses remain competitive and visible in procurement opportunities. This outcome reinforced AMAC’s long-standing commitment to protecting access and leveling the playing field for our … Read More

Soaring Success: How to Do Business at the Airport Without Owning a Store 

On Friday, December 5, 2025, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago and the AMAC Chicago Chapter hosted an insightful Mix & Mingle event focused on a compelling question for small businesses: How can you do business at the airport without owning a traditional store? This dynamic discussion offered actionable strategies for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the high-traffic, customer base of airport retail. Key Takeaways from the Experts The event featured a fantastic lineup … Read More

URW Airports is Now ASUR Airports!

From ASUR Airports: We’re excited to announce that the sale of URW Airports is now complete. Our team remains the same, and we are officially ASUR Airports. We will continue to leverage our experienced local leadership to deliver exceptional projects. ASUR is a leading international airport operator with a portfolio of concessions to operate, maintain, and develop 16 airports in the Americas, including Cancún International Airport. Founded in 1998, ASUR is listed on both the Mexican Bolsa (ASUR) and the … Read More

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Judges

Each Runway to Success Competition will feature a judging panel composed of industry executives and business owners with expertise across the airport, aviation and transportation sectors, including operations, procurement and supplier management.

The final pitch competition, held at the AMAC Airport Business Conference, will feature a VIP panel of leaders from the largest airport food and retail operators in North America who possess the authority to extend a business offer.

Suppliers

Supplier applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Suppliers of Goods and Services Positioned to Support Growth, Innovation or Customer Experience in the Aviation Industry

  • Suppliers Offering Strategic, Innovative or Scalable Solutions

  • Must Be Registered as a Legal Business Entity and in Good Standing

  • At Least 51% Minority- or Woman-Owned

  • Able to Clearly Articulate the Value of Their Product or Service in a Short Pitch Format

  • Must Be Available to Attend the Live Pitch Event

  • Must Not Currently Have or Be In the Process of Establishing an Agreement With Any Operators or Airport Concessionaires

HOSTS

AMAC is accepting applications from partners to host one of the eight (8) first-round Runway to Success Supplier Pitch Competitions.

Hosting a first-round competition is critical to the overall Runway to Success Supplier Competition. Each host site serves as a gateway for local and regional entrepreneurs, small businesses and ACDBEs to access AMAC’s national platform and connect to contracting and partnership opportunities.