Pick up your badge at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 4th floor.

Kick off the Global Business Forum with an iconic Philadelphia experience at the historic Reading Terminal Market. One of the oldest and most vibrant public markets in the United States, this beloved landmark brings together local flavors, global cuisine, and the unmistakable energy of the city. Join fellow GBF delegates for an informal evening of networking, conversation, and culinary discovery as you sample bites from a diverse mix of vendors and reconnect with colleagues from across the WTCA network. Set against the lively backdrop of the Market, the Welcome Reception sets the tone for the days ahead which are open, dynamic, and rooted in authentic connection.

Join us at 9:00 AM for the Opening Ceremony as we officially kick off the 2026 WTCA Global Business Forum. Hear opening remarks from Thomas Young, President & CEO of World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia, who will welcome delegates to the host city; Cherelle Parker, Mayor of Philadelphia, who will share the city’s vision as a global hub for business and innovation; and John E. Drew, Chairman of the World Trade Centers Association, who will set the tone for the Forum and the global collaboration ahead.

Distinguished remarks by His Excellency Ambassador Xie, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China

As global markets continue to evolve amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, emerging technologies, and new trade policies, this session offers a forward-looking perspective on what lies ahead for international trade and investment in 2026.

Take a moment to recharge and connect during this dedicated networking break. Enjoy light refreshments while continuing conversations sparked during the morning sessions or making new connections with fellow delegates from across the WTCA network.

NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving joins Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris and WTC Greater Philadelphia President & CEO Thomas Young for a dynamic, forward-looking conversation on how cities build lasting economic power.

From investing in opportunity and scaling business beyond borders to aligning public policy with private risk, this session will unpack what it really takes to compete globally. Dr. J will share lessons from his journey from sports icon to investor and business leader. Representative Harris will speak to the role of public investment in the workforce and economic growth. Thomas Young will connect it all—outlining how Philadelphia is positioning itself as a gateway to international markets.

This fireside chat is a blueprint for how capital, culture, and commerce come together to shape the next chapter of Philadelphia’s global story.

Research universities, healthcare systems, and life-science institutions are no longer just centers of knowledge, they are powerful engines of global economic growth. In this TED-style mainstage session, speakers from different regions share concise, story-driven perspectives on how "Eds & Meds" ecosystems transform research excellence into international partnerships, investment, and market expansion. From breakthrough discoveries to cross-border collaboration, this session highlights the moments, decisions, and connections that enable regions to compete and collaborate on a global stage.

Andrea Ladouceur brings a regional innovation perspective to the “From Research to Global Markets: How ‘Eds & Meds’ Ecosystems Drive International Growth” session. As President & CEO of Bioscience Association Manitoba, she leads efforts to advance one of Canada’s fastest-growing life sciences sectors—connecting research, industry, and investment to accelerate commercialization. Her insights highlight how collaborative ecosystems can translate scientific discovery into global market opportunities, driving economic growth and cross-border partnerships.

Great ideas and strong regional assets are only the starting point. What truly drives international growth is the ability to activate partnerships that turn potential into real business outcomes. This fast-paced Member Flash Session features a series of rapid, real-world case stories from across the WTCA network, spotlighting how strategic partnerships between regions, institutions, companies, and connectors have unlocked market access, investment, and expansion opportunities. Each speaker shares one focused example of a partnership that made a measurable difference, offering practical insight into what worked, who was involved, and what came next.

Learn about the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, which aims to identify and promote readily deployable and scalable solutions and innovative technologies from the private sector contributing to an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development of the Blue Economy. Particular attention will be paid to high impact solutions for Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States.

Enjoy a relaxed networking lunch designed to foster meaningful connections in an informal setting. This midday break brings delegates together to continue conversations from the morning sessions, exchange perspectives, and explore opportunities for collaboration across regions and sectors.

The WTCA General Assembly is a closed-door meeting reserved exclusively for WTCA Members. This annual governance session provides Members with the opportunity to engage directly with WTCA leadership on the strategic direction and future priorities of the Association.

This year's agenda is as follows:

• Chairman's Remarks
• Executive Team 2026 Outlook
• Accreditation Showcase
• By-Laws Amendment Q&A
• Board Committee Roundtable with Q&A
• Member Group Photo
• Closing Remarks

Exploring how Agriculture, food, and beverage unlock trade, attract investment, and connect local producers to global opportunities.

Reimagined for 2026, the WTCA Catalog & Cocktail Reception brings the entire network together in one vibrant, unified evening—expanding beyond traditional Regional Receptions. Open to all attendees and their accompanying guests, this high-energy gathering blends recognition and connection, celebrating accredited Members while showcasing the 2026 WTCA Member Catalog. Expect a dynamic atmosphere designed for discovery, conversation, and global networking—where conversations turn into collaborations.

Start your morning the Philly way — with an energizing run inspired by Rocky Balboa himself.

Join fellow GBF delegates for a fun, community-driven Rocky Run, taking you through one of Philadelphia’s most iconic routes and up the legendary steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or just in it for the photo op, this early-morning run is about momentum, connection, and a little Rocky-style grit.

The Global Café brings delegates together in an interactive, roundtable-style format to explore one of the most pressing issues facing global business today: trade and tariffs. Designed to encourage open dialogue and the exchange of perspectives, this session creates space for candid conversation around current trade policies, tariff dynamics, and their real-world impact on businesses and markets. Participants will rotate through facilitated tables, sharing regional insights, challenges, and strategies for navigating an evolving trade environment. By tapping into the collective expertise of the WTCA network, the Global Café fosters peer learning, practical takeaways, and a deeper understanding of how organizations can adapt amid ongoing change.

Engage in strategic B2B matchmaking sessions designed to connect you directly with potential business partners and investors from across the globe. These targeted meetings and curated networking opportunities create an efficient, high-impact environment for building meaningful business relationships. Secure your matches via the B2Match platform. 

Log in to B2Match to start matchmaking!

Enjoy a relaxed networking lunch designed to foster meaningful connections in an informal setting. This midday break brings delegates together to continue conversations from the morning sessions, exchange perspectives, and explore opportunities for collaboration across regions and sectors.

This opening segment sets the stage for the 2026 WTCA Real Estate Summit, outlining the key themes of investment, innovation, and impact. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how the afternoon connects global real estate trends with the World Trade Center® network’s role as a catalyst for trade-driven development.

What makes Philadelphia investment-ready in today’s market? Investors and development finance experts share their thoughts on investment strategy, prioritizing collaboration, and building enduring value in Philadelphia.

A high-level look at the global forces reshaping real estate investment and development. This session examines capital flows, nearshoring, logistics demand, sustainability premiums, and the evolving role of global cities—providing a macro lens for developers, investors, and city leaders navigating an increasingly complex landscape.

Explores how to strategically package, price, and position trade services to transform trade develop

The Builder’s Journey spotlights entrepreneurs as builders of ventures, ecosystems, and opportunity, exploring how grit, adaptability, and strategic collaboration fuel sustainable growth at every stage of the journey

How do you turn a strong real estate concept into a compelling investment and marketing story? Through live WTC case examples and interactive roundtable exercises, this workshop will help attendees refine how they position their projects for investors, partners, and market visibility — from defining differentiators to crafting a stronger pitch.

This integrated session highlights select World Trade Center projects alongside clear, data-driven measures of return on investment and local economic impact. Through concise project spotlights, speakers will demonstrate how WTC developments—particularly public–private partnerships and non-traditional assets such as logistics hubs, industrial parks, and warehousing—deliver value for investors, cities, and communities.

New session! Free Trade Zones are emerging as powerful platforms for attracting investment, enabling trade, and accelerating economic growth. This session explores how the World Trade Center model can align with and scale within Free Trade Zones—combining infrastructure, connectivity, and services to create globally competitive business ecosystems. Through real-world examples and expert insights, speakers will examine how WTC businesses can integrate into or collaborate with Free Trade Zones to unlock new opportunities, strengthen trade flows, and enhance their role as gateways to international markets.

Celebrate the spirit of collaboration and connection at the conclusion of Day 2. This session provides attendees an opportunity to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated during the event with those they met at the WTCA GBF.

Participants are invited to take the stage for a photo opportunity, symbolizing their commitment to exploring future business opportunities and fostering ongoing dialogue. Whether you’ve discussed potential partnerships, investment ideas, or collaborative projects, this ceremony highlights the power of the connections made at the GBF without requiring a formal agreement, though MOU signing are also welcome.

Stage spots are limited and expected to fill quickly. Attendees interested in participating are strongly encouraged to sign up in advance to reserve a dedicated time slot for their photo and signing opportunity. RSVP at events@wtca.org. 

During the week of the 2026 WTCA Global Business Forum, the Global Professional Summit brings together emerging leaders, global delegates, and industry decision-makers for a vibrant Tuesday
night experience.

The evening opens with a candid panel on leadership, workforce growth, and what it takes to operate at an international scale — then moves into a curated networking reception connecting young professionals directly with executives and
policymakers from around the world.

This event is for: 

• Young professionals ready to expand their network beyond the local market
• Early-to mid-career leaders looking to sharpen their executive presence 
• Workforce development advocates and emerging policy voices
• Students and recent graduates who want access to real decision makers
• Global delegates interested in meeting the region's next generation of talent

Advanced Registration Required 

Start your day with connection and conversation at the Women@WTCA Breakfast. This gathering brings together women from across the global WTCA network for a meaningful exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Through candid dialogue and shared insights, attendees will explore leadership, growth, and the power of community—building connections that extend well beyond the Forum. Come for the connections—and stay for a chance to win some fun giveaways.

RSVP on the B2Match platform.

Discover the stories that shaped a nation with an exclusive visit to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, featuring access to rare archives and artifacts that bring Philadelphia’s past to life through the people, ideas, and moments that defined American history.  The collection at HSP extends far beyond regional history, showcasing a rich international collection, preserving materials that document global migration, diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. 

Lunch will be provided.

This tour will be combined with the Accompanying Guest Tour.

Learn more: Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Sign up using the B2Match platform. Space is limited!

In the heart of Center City, the Comcast Center and Comcast Technology Center anchor the dynamic Comcast Campus, the headquarters of global media and technology leader Comcast. A tour offers you a firsthand look at how innovation in connectivity, media, and technology is shaped within a state-of-the-art urban headquarters that integrates cutting-edge design, talent development, and global operations.

Learn more: Comcast Campus

Sign up using the B2Match platform. Space is limited!

This tour is currently at max capacity
Go behind the scenes at PhilaPort for an insider look at one of the nation’s most vital full-service port on the Atlantic Coast, delivering world-class cargo handling, state-of-the-art facilities, and seamless global connections. Named the most productive port in North America in both 2023 & 2024 (https://www.philaport.com/philadelphia-named-most-productive-port-in-north-america/), you will get a deep look at the operations, capabilities and expansion plans of this major regional asset. 

Lunch will be provided.

Learn more: PhilaPort
 

At Max Capacity

Founded in 2016, by the University of Pennsylvania, Pennovation Works showcases the powerful connection between higher education and entrepreneurship. By pairing world-class research with purpose-built lab and collaboration space, it accelerates the translation of academic discovery into scalable companies and real-world solutions. The tour offers an inside look at how universities can anchor innovation ecosystems, attract global talent, and drive regional economic growth. 

Lunch will be provided.

Learn more: Pennovation Works

Sign up using the B2Match platform. Space is limited!

Located along the Delaware River, the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard has transformed from a storied shipbuilding center into a thriving hub of advanced manufacturing, sustainable energy, and global commerce. Driven by a highly successful public-private partnership between the City and the Chamber of Commerce, the Navy Yard has become a beacon of innovation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. The tour will offer  a firsthand look at how strategic collaboration, heritage preservation, and forward-thinking investment can power resilient, future-ready development. 

Lunch will be provided.

Learn more: PIDC/Navy Yard

Sign up using the B2Match platform. Space is limited!

Celebrate an unforgettable evening at the WTCA Gala, the signature social highlight of the Global Business Forum. Bringing together delegates from around the world, this special night blends connection, recognition, and celebration in a vibrant setting—set against the dynamic backdrop of Philadelphia, a city where history meets innovation. Enjoy an evening of dining, entertainment, and meaningful networking as we honor the strength and spirit of the WTCA global network—where relationships are strengthened and new connections come to life. Elegant cocktail attire encouraged.