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2026 World Trade Centers Association Member Forum to Convene Global Network to Shape What’s Next for Global Business

Event will connect leaders from across nearly 100 countries and territories to exchange ideas, share practical strategies and shape the Association for the future
Oct 12, 2026

NEW YORK, NY October 12, 2026 — World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — will virtually host the 2026 WTCA Member Forum from October 27-28, bringing together its global network to exchange ideas, share practical strategies and explore how WTC businesses can prepare for the opportunities shaping the future of global business.

Centered on the theme “Connecting Ideas. Shaping What’s Next,” the annual Member Forum will draw on the collective expertise of WTCA members around the world, with programming focused on turning lessons from across the network into action in local markets. Sessions will explore how WTC businesses are responding to changing industries and investment patterns, strengthening local business communities, creating globally connected opportunities and positioning their organizations and places for the future.

The Forum will open with a briefing from WTCA Chair, Board of Directors John E. Drew and WTCA’s new Chief Executive Officer Annette Gregg, who will share perspectives on the Association’s direction, developments across the global network and priorities for the year ahead.

“This year’s Member Forum comes at a pivotal time for our Association as we recently moved our Headquarters office to One World Trade Center, and announced the appointment of the Association’s new CEO,” said John E. Drew, WTCA Chair, Board of Directors. “The Forum is designed to be an annual touchpoint to reconnect with our members from around the world and tap into one of the greatest strengths of WTCA — the knowledge, experiences and ideas that exist throughout our global membership. We also plan for this to be the Association’s last virtual Member Forum as we are aiming to get back to our in-person format at One World Trade Center starting next year.”

“The Forum marks an important first for me as I join WTCA, and I’m excited to meet our members from around the world and begin this next chapter together,” added Annette Gregg, WTCA Chief Executive Officer. “As I step into this role, I look forward to building on the Association’s strong foundation while exploring new ways to support our members and strengthen the impact of WTCA around the world.”

Throughout the two-day program, WTCA members and industry leaders will share practical approaches and ideas that can be applied across markets. Key sessions include “WTCA Member Power Pitches: Shaping What’s Next,” a fast-paced showcase of ideas and initiatives creating value at WTC locations around the world. The interactive “Introducing the WTC Business Club Playbook: Build Locally. Connect Globally” session will introduce a new framework for building local business communities and creating pathways to introductions, trade support and opportunities across the global WTCA network. The “Future-Ready WTC Businesses: Creating Places that Shape What’s Next” session will explore how evolving industries, investment patterns and ways of working are influencing real estate strategies, as well as how WTC businesses can create environments that attract investment and encourage business collaboration. The interactive “Global Café: Trade in Transition” session will bring members together to exchange perspectives on changing trade policies, tariffs and market conditions, and explore how WTC businesses can connect emerging opportunities across the global network. And the “Technology in Action” session will showcase unique ways WTCA members are putting technology into action — from improving business matchmaking and events to creating new experiences, strengthening services and solving everyday challenges.

"Virtual does not mean less connection," added Crystal Edn, WTCA Executive Director-Member Services. "Across two days of presentations and interactive workshops, members from every region will exchange ideas and meet peers they would not otherwise reach. We built the program for every level of a WTC team. Everyone will leave with new tools, new ideas and new partners for the year ahead."

The Forum will also kick off the official countdown to the highly anticipated 57th annual WTCA Global Business Forum, which will be hosted April 4-7, 2027, in Binh Duong Ward, North of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam by WTC Binh Duong New City. The session “Destination Vietnam: Bringing the 2027 WTCA GBF to Life” will highlight the market opportunities, business experiences and programming that will shape next year’s global gathering.

For more information about the 2026 WTCA Member Forum and to view the full agenda, please click here. Also, follow along on social media via #WTCAEvents.

MEDIA CONTACTS: 

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) 

Chanelle Dimalanta 

Phone: +1 212 432 2644 

Email: cdimalanta@wtca.org 

For any media interested in attending the event virtually, please contact: 

Violet PR 

Christina Forrest

Phone: +1 646 586 9932

Email: christina@violetpr.com

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Source:  https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2026-world-trade-centers-association-member-forum-to-convene-global-network-to-shape-whats-next-for-global-business-302902918.html?tc=eml_cleartime  


World Trade Centers Association Appoints Annette Gregg as First Female CEO in 57-Year History

Global association executive selected to lead WTCA into its next chapter, strengthening Member value and connections across its network across nearly 100 countries and territories
Oct 05, 2026

NEW YORK, NY – October 5, 2026 — World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — today announced the appointment of Annette Gregg as its first female Chief Executive Officer in the Association’s 57-year history.

Gregg joins WTCA as the Association enters a new chapter, following the recent return of its global headquarters to the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan after 25 years, signaling an exciting new chapter for the organization, and further advancing its mission of “Connecting Businesses, Globally.” As CEO, Gregg will provide strategic leadership to WTCA and its global staff, working closely with the Board of Directors and Members to advance the Association’s strategic and business priorities. She will also serve as a leading public voice for WTCA, focused on strengthening engagement across its Membership, expanding the global network and creating new opportunities for Members to connect businesses, markets and communities through international trade and investment.

“Annette brings the combination of strategic vision, financial acumen and global stakeholder engagement that WTCA needs as we look toward the future,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “Throughout her career, she has demonstrated that she knows how to strengthen international organizations by listening to their Members, creating meaningful value and building connections across markets and cultures. With Annette stepping into this new role and WTCA recently establishing its headquarters at One World Trade Center, we are building on a strong legacy while positioning the Association for its next era of global growth and impact.”

Gregg brings more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning global associations, private enterprise and the international business events and hospitality sectors. Most recently, she served as CEO of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), where she led a global association of approximately 3,700 members and 27 chapters. Under her leadership, SITE increased topline revenue by 160% in three years through diversified revenue streams while expanding membership by more than 70%. She was also recently named the 2026 Marin Bright Legacy Award Recipient for her work with SITE, and her leadership in meetings and events, and was awarded at the 2026 Smart Women in Meetings Awards Gala.

Previously, Gregg served as Chief Revenue Officer for Meeting Professionals International (MPI), where she was responsible for approximately 70% of the organization’s revenue and helped expand global product distribution across Europe, Asia and Latin America. Her career has consistently centered on building international communities, strengthening stakeholder engagement and translating the reach of global networks into tangible value for their members.

“WTCA has an extraordinary foundation — a trusted global brand and a network of Members with deep connections to businesses and communities across nearly 100 countries and territories,” said Annette Gregg, Chief Executive Officer, WTCA. “I see tremendous opportunity to build on that strength — listening to our Members, connecting ideas and opportunities across markets and finding new ways for this network to create meaningful business value. I’m honored to lead WTCA into this next chapter and excited to help strengthen the connections that make international business possible.”

Gregg’s appointment comes as businesses are navigating an increasingly complex global environment, making trusted relationships, market intelligence and direct connections across borders increasingly important. Through its network, events and programming, WTCA brings together business leaders, economic development organizations and WTC businesses to exchange market intelligence, develop cross-border relationships and identify opportunities for trade and investment.

She assumes her CEO responsibilities effective October 5 and will lead WTCA from its recently established global headquarters at One World Trade Center in New York City, working alongside the Association’s headquarters and regional teams serving Members around the world.

MEDIA CONTACTS: 

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) 

Chanelle Dimalanta 

Phone: +1 212 432 2644 

Email: cdimalanta@wtca.org 

Violet PR 

Christina Forrest

Phone: +1 646 586 9932  

Email: christina@violetpr.com  

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Source:  https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/world-trade-centers-association-appoints-annette-gregg-as-first-female-ceo-in-57-year-history-302896304.html?tc=eml_cleartime


World Trade Centers Association Establishes Global Headquarters at One World Trade Center

International trade organization returns to the World Trade Center site after 25 years, establishing its headquarters at a global center for business, commerce and connectivity, marking a new chapter for the Association
Oct 02, 2026

NEW YORK, NY – October 2, 2026 — World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — today announced the relocation of its global headquarters to One World Trade Center in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, establishing a new home for the Association at one of the world’s most recognized addresses for international business and trade.

The move returns WTCA to the WTC site for the first time in 25 years and marks a significant milestone for an organization founded in New York in 1969. From its new headquarters on the 46th floor of One World Trade Center, WTCA will advance its mission of “Connecting Businesses, Globally.”

The new headquarters reflects both WTCA’s longstanding roots in New York and the increasingly global nature of its work. From its new office, WTCA will continue advancing its mission to help its Members create connections across markets and facilitate opportunities for international trade and investment while creating a global gathering point for its Members, partners and business leaders.

“Returning our global headquarters to One World Trade Center is both a meaningful homecoming and a significant milestone for WTCA and our continued growth as a global organization,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “New York City has been WTCA’s home since our founding more than five decades ago, and today, our global network reaches nearly 100 countries and territories. This new office space gives us a dynamic setting — and a fitting global address — to bring together Members and partners from around the world as we continue building connections that support trade, investment and economic growth.”

WTCA now occupies Suite 46C, a 2,556-square-foot office on the 46th floor of One World Trade Center. The built space includes private offices, a conference room, reception and pantry areas, along with an open workspace that supports day-to-day collaboration. Expansive views of the Hudson River and Midtown Manhattan provide the backdrop for the office designed to serve both WTCA’s New York-based team and the Members, partners and other stakeholders who visit from across the global network.

The new headquarters also strengthens WTCA’s ability to use New York as a convening point for its global Membership, showcasing the city’s importance at the center of global commerce and trade. Through its network, events and programming, WTCA brings together business leaders, economic development organizations and WTC businesses to exchange market intelligence, build cross-border relationships and identify opportunities for trade and investment.

As a tenant, WTCA and its guests will also have access to Well& by Durst, a 25,000-square-foot amenity space on the 64th floor of One World Trade Center. The space includes a sky lobby, café, and 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting, conference and event space, serving as a world-class business and social hub fostering workplace creativity, collaboration, and community. Access to this premium floor expands WTCA’s capacity to host gatherings and international delegations at its new global headquarters.

“The World Trade Centers Association’s decision to establish its global headquarters at One World Trade Center is fitting given the organization’s international reach and mission to advance trade and business connections globally. We look forward to welcoming them to One World Trade Center, an address known around the world,” said Jody Durst, President of The Durst Organization.

One World Trade Center was developed by The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and The Durst Organization in a public-private partnership.

“For more than two decades, the Port Authority has invested in rebuilding the World Trade Center as a place that drives economic growth and brings together commerce, culture and community in the heart of Lower Manhattan,” said Jolene Yeats, World Trade Center Director at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. “Welcoming the World Trade Centers Association back to the site of its original headquarters is another exciting step in fulfilling that vision – there's no place more fitting for its mission of building new bridges and creating new connections.”

WTCA’s office relocation comes 25 years after the Association last maintained offices on the 77th floor of the original World Trade Center’s North Tower. While the return carries historical significance, the headquarters office is intended to serve a distinctly forward-looking role — providing WTCA with a permanent global base for an organization whose reach now extends across nearly 100 countries and territories. Together, the network serves as an international ecosystem for commerce, community and connection, helping businesses access new markets and supporting trade and investment across borders.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

Chanelle Dimalanta

Phone: +1 212 432 2644

Email: cdimalanta@wtca.org

Violet PR

Christina Forrest

Phone: +1 646 586 9932

Email: christina@violetpr.com

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Source:  https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/world-trade-centers-association-establishes-global-headquarters-at-one-world-trade-center-302895705.html?tc=eml_cleartime


Over 500 Leaders from Across More Than 50 Countries and Territories Attend 56th Annual World Trade Centers Association Global Business Forum in Philadelphia

Flagship WTCA event delivers high-impact sector insights and global business connections across industries
May 12, 2026

NEW YORK, NY – May 12, 2026 – World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — and World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP) successfully concluded the 56th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF), held April 19-22, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The four-day event marked the Forum’s return to the United States after nearly a decade, convening over 500 attendees representing 116 WTC businesses across 53 countries and territories, including over 200 business delegates, both in person and virtually. Participants included leaders from business, government, academia and international organizations, all attending with the purpose of advancing global trade, investment and collaboration.

Attendees participated in panels, workshops, site visits and networking sessions, with B2B meetings facilitated through the B2Match platform connecting participants with potential partners, investors and distributors. The programming focused on driving practical business outcomes and cross-border connections.

Under the theme “Historic Foundations, Future Collaborations: Cultivating New Business Frontiers,” the Forum addressed practical avenues to build meaningful global partnership in the context of current global economic conditions. Programming featured keynote addresses from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker; who highlighted Philadelphia’s economic momentum, global connectivity and growing reputation as a city open for international business and investment; Ambassador Xie Feng of the People’s Republic of China, who reinforced the role of trade and dialogue in supporting long-term economic growth and global cooperation; and Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen who discussed the current state of global trade and the importance of connection; along with a discussion on how culture drives long-term economic strength with NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris, and WTCGP President and CEO Thomas Young. During the conversation, Dr. J reflected on how the discipline, resilience and pursuit of excellence found in sports can translate into business leadership, innovation and community impact. Additional sessions covered trade dynamics, investment trends and cross-sector collaboration.

Recent shifts in the global trade landscape, marked by policy changes and uneven market conditions, framed much of the discussion at this year’s Forum. Programming brought companies, investors and trade organizations into the same room to assess experiences, risks and deal opportunities. Conversations centered on practical solutions for access, timing and scalable execution. Across sessions, participants pointed to WTCA’s role as a consistent convening platform where commercial relationships are advanced even as conditions remain unpredictable.

“In today’s climate, meeting in person is essential for fostering authentic connections, and the annual WTCA Global Business Forum opens the conversation to shed light on the reality of the current trade environment — where uncertainty, shifting policies and economic pressures are reshaping how business gets done across borders,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “Through this Forum, the global WTCA network provides a trusted platform for leaders to exchange perspectives, build relationships and move forward with the clarity and confidence they need as they continue advancing their regional economies. This year, we reinforced that global connection and engagement is critical in driving reliable trade, investment and long-term economic growth even in challenging times.”

Philadelphia served as a strong backdrop for this year’s Forum, showcasing its economic strengths across food and agriculture, higher education, life sciences, manufacturing, and innovation and technology. Its strategic location along the Northeast Corridor and established global connections reinforced its vital role as a hub for international business and trade.

“It meant a lot to host the WTCA network here in Philadelphia, especially as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary,” said Thomas Young, President and CEO of WTCGP. “There’s a strong sense of history here, but also real momentum. Throughout the Forum, we saw people making connections that go beyond introductions — the kind that lead to business, partnerships and long-term growth. That was happening in B2B meetings, in sessions and in conversations across the city, and it’s exactly what this network is built to support — bringing people together in ways that translate into real economic opportunity.”

Additionally, the WTCA Real Estate Summit returned for its second year, examining global capital flows, investment strategy and development trends, with a macro view on the state of commercial real estate and Philadelphia’s positioning as a competitive investment market. The Forum also marked the launch of the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, an international open innovation initiative seeking scalable solutions across sectors including blue renewable energy, sustainable food systems, green maritime transport, coastal tourism, ecosystem restoration and blue tech. The initiative introduced a growing area of focus for WTCA and underscored the increasing connection between environmental sustainability, economic opportunity and global business collaboration. Companies, startups and research institutions are invited to apply by June 19, 2026.

Building on the momentum of this year’s Forum, WTCA will continue to support its global network through ongoing programming and partnerships that strengthen international business ties and expand opportunities for members worldwide. The 57th annual WTCA GBF will take place April 4-7, 2027, hosted by World Trade Center Binh Duong New City (WTC BDNC) in Binh Duong New City, Vietnam. Next year’s Forum will underscore Vietnam’s continued rise as a hub for innovation, industry and international connectivity.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

Chanelle Dimalanta

Phone: +1 212 432 2644

Email: cdimalanta@wtca.org

Violet PR

Kate Traina

Phone: +1 908 967 2117

Email: kate@violetpr.com

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the "World Trade Center" and "WTC" trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

About World Trade Center (WTC) Greater Philadelphia

World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP) is one of over 300 World Trade Center businesses in nearly 100 countries/territories around the globe. A non-profit and membership-based organization, WTCGP accelerates global business growth for southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey companies by providing customized, one-on-one trade counseling, market research, educational programs, trade mission support, business networking events, and powerful connections to customers and partners worldwide. Since 2002, WTCGP has served as a catalyst for regional economic growth and job creation, helping area companies generate over $2.4B in incremental export sales and supporting over 27,000 jobs. To learn more, visit www.wtcphila.org.

Gb Photo Lower Res

Attendees at the 2026 WTCA Global Business Forum held April 19-22 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Photo Credit: Irina Althouse.

Please see here for the official press release: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/over-500-leaders-from-across-more-than-50-countries-and-territories-attend-56th-annual-world-trade-centers-association-global-business-forum-in-philadelphia-302769051.html?tc=eml_cleartime


Global Trade, Investment and Innovation Take Center Stage at the 56th Annual World Trade Centers Association Global Business Forum in Philadelphia

International business and policy leaders will gather for four days of dialogue, dealmaking and cross-border collaboration
Mar 31, 2026

NEW YORK, NY – March 31, 2026 – World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations across nearly 100 countries and territories — and WTC Greater Philadelphia will host the 56th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) from April 19-22, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marking the Forum’s return to the United States for the first time in nearly a decade. The annual WTCA GBF convenes WTCA members and their global networks, bringing together leaders from business, government, academia and international organizations. This year, nearly 300 registrants representing 93 WTC businesses across 46 countries and territories have confirmed their participation.

With the theme “Historic Foundations, Future Collaborations: Cultivating New Business Frontiers,” this year’s Forum will feature diverse programming, including a keynote address from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, positioning Philadelphia as a gateway for international business; and a discussion featuring NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris, and WTC Greater Philadelphia President & CEO Thomas Young on how cities build lasting economic power.

Additional sessions include “Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2026,” a panel discussion including Ken Levinson, CEO of the Washington International Trade Association (WITA); and “From Research to Global Markets: How ‘Eds & Meds’ Ecosystems Drive International Growth,” which will explore how universities, healthcare systems and life-science institutions are powering global economic growth. The GBF will also launch the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, which aims to identify and promote readily deployable and scalable solutions from the private sector contributing to an inclusive, resilient and sustainable development of the Blue Economy. 

The WTCA Real Estate Summit will return to the event agenda for a second year with specialized sessions focused on real estate development topics, including “Global Macro Trends: The State of Global Capital & Space,” a conversation with Juan Gallardo, Executive Vice President, Client Solutions Latin America of Colliers International, on the global forces reshaping real estate investment and development; and “Investing in Philadelphia: Strategy, Growth, and the Power of Partnership” with David J. Adelman, CEO of Campus Apartments, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of Future Standard (formerly known as FS Investments), and partner of the Philadelphia 76ers, in conversation with Daniel J. Hilferty, Chairman & CEO of Comcast Spectacor and Governor of the Philadelphia Flyers, on investment strategy, prioritizing collaboration, and building enduring value in Philadelphia. Additionally, the program will feature a panel discussion “Scaling the World Trade Center Model through Free Trade Zones,” with Martín Gustavo Ibarra, President of Araújo Ibarra & Asociados S.A and founding member of the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO). This Summit will focus on educating real estate sector attendees and providing practical, actionable insights on navigating global capital flows and real investment opportunities. 

“We’re pleased the Global Business Forum is returning to the U.S. this year, especially as the country approaches its 250th anniversary, and in Philadelphia, the Birthplace of America,” said John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors. “This year’s GBF comes at a pivotal moment. In an increasingly complex global economy, the WTCA network remains a trusted platform where business leaders come together to forge partnerships, learn how to best navigate uncertainty and unlock new opportunities across the globe.”

As the four-day Forum aims to catalyze long-term partnerships, participants will have access to B2B matchmaking through the WTCA B2Match platform, connecting them directly with potential business partners, investors and distributors from around the world. The platform allows attendees to schedule meetings, sessions and local business tours while maximizing networking opportunities for building meaningful, results-driven business relationships.

Philadelphia, built on innovation and global exchange, is the ideal host for this year’s Forum. The sixth-largest U.S. city offers a dynamic business environment with economic strengths in healthcare, higher education, life sciences, manufacturing, technology and finance, as well as a strategic location between New York City and Washington, D.C.

“We’re thrilled to welcome WTCA members from around the world to Philadelphia for the 2026 WTCA GBF,” said Thomas Young, President & CEO of WTC Greater Philadelphia. “Philadelphia is home to world-class universities, leading companies in life sciences, tech and advanced manufacturing all anchored within a vibrant business community and culture — an excellent showcase of some of the best assets in the U.S. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local industry leaders, explore investment opportunities and experience firsthand why Philadelphia is a hub for trade and international collaboration.”

Last year’s 2025 WTCA GBF in Marseille, France, brought together over 400 attendees from more than 50 countries and territories, including nearly 120 WTC businesses. The Forum featured more than 20 workshops, keynotes, panels, local company tours and over 500 B2B meetings.

Top sponsors of the 2026 WTCA GBF include Fulton Bank; MFR Consultants, Inc.; and White and Williams LLP. For more information about this year’s Forum and the opportunity to register to attend, please visit https://wtca.swoogo.com/2026wtcaglobalbusinessforum. Also, follow along on social media via #WTCAEvents and #WTCAinPhilly.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

Chanelle Dimalanta

Phone: +1 212 432 2644

Email: cdimalanta@wtca.org

Violet PR

Kate Traina

Phone: +1 908 967 2117

Email: kate@violetpr.com

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the "World Trade Center" and "WTC" trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

About World Trade Center (WTC) Greater Philadelphia

World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP) is one of over 300 World Trade Center businesses in nearly 100 countries/territories around the globe. A non-profit and membership-based organization, WTCGP accelerates global business growth for southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey companies by providing customized, one-on-one trade counseling, market research, educational programs, trade mission support, business networking events, and powerful connections to customers and partners worldwide. Since 2002, WTCGP has served as a catalyst for regional economic growth and job creation, helping area companies generate over $2.4B in incremental export sales and supporting over 27,000 jobs. To learn more, visit www.wtcphila.org.

Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-trade-investment-and-innovation-take-center-stage-at-the-56th-annual-world-trade-centers-association-global-business-forum-in-philadelphia-302729266.html?tc=eml_cleartime