Spotlight On: Thomas Young, President & CEO, World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia
May 2025 — In an interview with Invest:, Thomas Young, CEO of the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia, discussed trade trends, investment opportunities, and the city’s global positioning. “We aim to be the bridge between opportunity and action,” he said.
What have been the most significant milestones and achievements for the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia over the last year?
We’ve been going through a transformative stage over the last 12 to 18 months. We’ve been trending in the right direction, engaging with our member companies to better understand their needs and improve efficiency, while working closely with local and state governments on key initiatives.
Our biggest achievement during this period has been winning the bid to host the World Trade Centers Association’s 56th Global Business Forum in Philadelphia in 2026 — their flagship event where all 300-plus World Trade Centers gather to spotlight a host city and foster business growth. It’s also a chance to connect companies from across regions.
Last year, the event was in Bengaluru, India. This year, it heads to Marseille, France. In 2026, we’ll welcome it to Philadelphia, and in 2027, it goes to Vietnam. Securing this event is our most significant milestone since I became CEO a year and a half ago.
We’ve also introduced new initiatives for our members. One of them — Members Connect — keeps our companies informed and engaged in the evolving global trade landscape. We’ve featured speakers from organizations like the U.S.-China Business Council and hosted events that highlight the power of the World Trade Center Association’s global network.
We’re helping members navigate the complexities of international business by fostering candid conversations on the realities of global trade — the good, the bad, and the challenging — and how our network has supported them through it.
Ultimately, we’re using today’s trade environment not only to grow our nonprofit organization, but to help local businesses expand globally while attracting foreign investment into Greater Philadelphia.
How would you describe international trade and business activity today, particularly that pertaining to the Greater Philadelphia region?
The global trade environment today is much like it has been in recent months and years — trade continues, and it hasn’t stopped. The ongoing conversation around tariffs is the main source of concern, but most companies continue with business as usual unless told otherwise.
The biggest anxiety for our members is the uncertainty around tariffs and taxation. As long as we keep them informed on developments, that concern remains manageable. That’s where we come in — not just as World Trade Center Philadelphia, but as part of a global association.
No matter what’s happening in commerce or policy, we aim to be a constant, keeping companies informed, tracking trends, and helping them adapt. We also maintain strong relationships with local, state, and federal government partners, ensuring we’re always up-to-date and equipped to serve our members effectively.
What industries in Philadelphia are seeing the most international interest and expansion opportunities right now?
Agriculture is a major industry for us, as Pennsylvania is one of the largest agricultural states in the country. Much of our trade activity, both imports and exports, revolves around this sector.
In Greater Philadelphia, life sciences are particularly strong. Gene therapy, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals are booming. Our universities and hospitals play a major role in the international space. There’s a steady flow of international talent coming to study at institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, and other top local universities.
International students significantly contribute to the region’s innovation ecosystem, supporting commercialization and global partnerships.
Technology is also a key growth area. Comcast, headquartered here, is one of the world’s largest tech companies. We collaborate with tech partners to drive innovation and enhance global connectivity.
These are just a few of the sectors where we see strong international interest and sustained momentum.
Where do you see the region’s greatest potential for future growth?
Philadelphia has tremendous opportunities in areas like medicine and innovation. With groundbreaking research coming out of our universities, we’re well-positioned to lead the next wave of medical advancements.
Spark Therapeutics is a great example. Their FDA approval last year for gene therapy highlights our role as a global hub for life sciences and healthcare innovation.
Philadelphia has the talent, research capacity, and infrastructure to continue growing, not just regionally but as a global leader in some of the world’s most vital industries.
What are the biggest challenges that Philadelphia-based companies face when expanding into international markets?
The biggest challenge is often the education piece, which is where we come in. We focus on expanding knowledge and helping companies understand the ins and outs of international business.
Our region is full of entrepreneurs, many of whom are university graduates who’ve chosen to stay and build businesses here. We also work with small and mid-sized companies actively seeking growth.
Education is where we can make the most impact, whether it’s helping companies identify the right markets or understand international finance tools like EXIM Bank. We aim to be the bridge between opportunity and action.
Ultimately, we want to connect businesses and entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to succeed globally.
How do you see public policy shaping the region’s global business competitiveness?
Public policy is critical, and one of the most important drivers of regional growth. Fortunately, we have strong leadership that understands this. Mayor Cherelle Parker is doing a great job supporting local companies and attracting business to Philadelphia. She’s very pro-business and highly engaged. We also have a governor who shares that vision. Gov. Josh Shapiro released the first comprehensive economic plan in over a decade, which is a major step forward.
Timing is everything, and right now, we’re in a great position. Our mayor and governor are aligned in their approach to expanding the region. That is a powerful combination for global competitiveness.
What factors make the region an appealing destination for international companies?
We help sell Pennsylvania and Philadelphia — along with our various partners — by showcasing the region’s strengths. Key sectors like life sciences, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals thrive here. We help international companies see the full range of advantages Greater Philadelphia offers.
And I’ll admit — I’m biased. I’m a hometown Philadelphian who truly believes there’s no city like it. You’re just 90 minutes from New York City and Washington, D.C., yet right in the heart of a vibrant, connected city. Our restaurant scene is world-class, and consistently recognized with James Beard Award nominations, the culinary world’s top honor. Add to that Philadelphia’s rich history — the Declaration of Independence was signed here — and you have a city rooted in the past, yet positioned for the future.
That blend of history, talent, culture, and connectivity makes Philadelphia a compelling destination for global business.
What are your top priorities for the association over the next few years?
My priorities are to grow the organization and, more importantly, help our local businesses expand and bring more investment to Philadelphia. As a lifelong Philadelphian, I’m proud to help elevate the city’s global reach. Hosting the Global Business Forum in April 2026 is a major milestone, not just to showcase Philadelphia, but to strengthen our global positioning.
I want to take the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia to new heights. It’s not about past shortcomings, it’s about looking ahead and asking how we can better serve our business community as a nonprofit. That mission — helping businesses and Philadelphia grow — is deeply personal to me. I come from a neighborhood with limited resources and opportunities. I was fortunate to make it through school and college. I see so many kids today who just need a sense of hope.
If expanding business and bringing in investment creates jobs and revitalizes our communities, then that’s my way of giving back, and helping uplift the entire region.
What is the significance of the Global Business Forum for Philadelphia in 2026?
The 2026 Global Business Forum is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. While most of the attention is on FIFA and America’s 250th anniversary, we’re bringing international business and commerce into the spotlight. This forum gives us a chance to position Philadelphia — and the broader trade community — for the future. It’s about strengthening global connectivity, making trade and investment easier, and creating opportunities for people and businesses alike.
While much of 2026 will focus on history, the Global Business Forum is about what comes next. It’s our moment to lead forward-thinking conversations and bring transformative ideas to the table.
For more information, please visit:
