Global Trade Summit: Kickoff to 2026
21st Annual Global Trade Summit
Kickoff to 2026 - Seizing the Global Spotlight
In 2026, Philadelphia will step onto the global stage like never before, and we’re kicking off what promises to be a transformative year for the region’s businesses.
Join us on May 21st for the 21st Annual Global Trade Summit, where we’ll officially launch our preparations for the exciting opportunities ahead. Hear from public and private sector leaders as they share insights into how Philadelphia is positioning itself for major global milestones and what this means for local businesses.​
The Global Trade Summit is your first step in shaping Philadelphia’s future as a leading global business hub—seizing the moment to drive innovation, commerce, and meaningful cross-border partnerships.
Interested in sponsoring this milestone event? Please email our Chief External Affairs Officer, Tom Levy, at tlevy@wtcphila.org for more information.
Event Highlights: Join us on May 21st for the 21st Annual Global Trade Summit, where we’ll officially launch our preparations for the exciting opportunities ahead. Hear from public and private sector leaders as they share insights into how Philadelphia is positioning itself for major global milestones and what this means for local businesses.​
The Global Trade Summit is your first step in shaping Philadelphia’s future as a leading global business hub—seizing the moment to drive innovation, commerce, and meaningful cross-border partnerships.
Interested in sponsoring this milestone event? Please email our Chief External Affairs Officer, Tom Levy, at tlevy@wtcphila.org for more information.
• Keynote Address by Mayor Cherelle Parker: Mayor Parker will speak to the significance of the United States’ Semiquincentennial and what it means for Philadelphia as the nation’s birthplace and a gateway to the world. Her remarks will highlight the city’s role in welcoming global audiences and how this historic moment will drive inclusive economic growth, attract international partnerships, and usher in a new era of global collaboration for the region.Â
• Philly Partners Panel: Prominent city leaders including Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center, Jonathan Todd, Director of Social Impact, FIFA World Cup 26 Philadelphia™ and Donavan West, Director of the Mayor’s Business Roundtable, City of Philadelphia, will discuss Philadelphia’s emergence as a major global player. The panel will explore how local organizations can benefit from the city’s increasing international traction and highlight the resources available to help businesses prepare for the global spotlight.Â
• Candid Conversation with Councilmember At-Large Isaiah Thomas and WTCGP President & CEO Thomas Young: In this engaging session, Councilmember Thomas and Thomas Young will discuss the significance of hosting the 2026 Global Business Forum and the economic opportunities it will create for Philadelphia’s diverse business community.
WTC members can use the discount code when checking out. Simply type "GlobalHub" into the promotional box.Â