Small Business Operators Arriving Ready (SOAR)

DTW, Michigan's gateway to the world, is committed to helping small businesses reach a global audience through the Small Business Operators Arriving Ready (SOAR) pilot program. SOAR creates access and opportunity for business owners to operate their specialty retail concept in the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal and showcase their products to thousands of travelers every day.

The First Lady of Wayne County, Renata C. Evans, formulated the idea of a small business program at DTW. A former small business owner herself, Mrs. Evans understood the importance of investing in training for entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for their growth. Through SOAR, the Airport Authority helps small business owners learn how to operate in an airport environment, ensuring they will be ready to thrive on their own in an airport concessions program.

DTW selected Quix Chocolate and Rebel Nell to be the first participants in the SOAR pilot program.

Quix Chocolate was founded as a family business in Lanklaar, Belgium in 1947. Quix, now based in Ferndale, Michigan, produces approximately 40 traditional flavors of Belgian chocolates using original recipes. Quix has been recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business and Hour Detroit Magazine.

Rebel Nell, based in Detroit, is a jewelry company that provides employment, equitable opportunity and wraparound support for women with barriers to traditional employment. This includes those who have experienced homelessness, returning citizens, refugees seeking asylum and awaiting citizenship, the LGBTQIA+ community, women living with mental illness, and women with physical disabilities.

Doing Business at the Airport

Businesses interested in future SOAR opportunities should have a strong concept with operational experience that attracts customers and supports a dynamic airport experience.

We are Open 7 days per week, 365 days per year

Interested businesses should be aware of safety, security/credentialing, logistics, insurance, and space development requirements in business planning considerations.

Announcements of solicitations can be found here. The Airport Authority officially posts solicitations on the MITN website located at www.mitn.info. If you have any questions, please email the Wayne County Airport Authority Procurement Department, or call (734) 247-7900.