CAE launches community engagement initiative, SOAR WITH US, to increase small business and DBE involvement
September 3, 2025
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) announced it will be hosting a two-part community engagement series: SOAR WITH US. This outreach initiative is designed to deepen ties within the community, increase transparency, support small businesses and continue CAE’s annual effort to meet and exceed its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals. The first community engagement event will take place on Wednesday, September 17 at 8:30 a.m. at Brooklyn Baptist Church and Conference Center.
“CAE has a longstanding commitment to establishing meaningful dialogue and creating opportunities that reflect our pledge to equity and sustainability,” said Gregg Hornsby, Interim President & CEO/CFO. “Through this initiative, we aim to build even stronger and deeper connections with our community by continuing to support our local businesses.”
The two-part series will focus on:
- “Opportunities for Small Businesses at CAE” and
- “How to Do Business with CAE”
On Wednesday, September 17, the first session will introduce small businesses to CAE’s master plan and upcoming projects, emphasizing opportunities for diverse business engagement. Topics will include development initiatives and current project opportunities. Additionally, there will be networking breaks throughout the event.
SOAR WITH US reflects CAE’s commitment to:
- Enhancing Public Understanding: The airport has a pivotal role in economic development, job creation, and community involvement and enhancement.
- Incorporating Community Feedback: CAE aims to actively engage local voices in airport planning and key decision-making processes.
- Supporting Workforce Development: Collaborating with local organizations and educational institutions is a top priority of CAE; preparing the next generation for careers in aviation and transportation.
- Improving Transparency: CAE recognizes the importance of gaining and keeping trust through open communication about airport operations and future projects.
SOAR WITH US also underscores CAE’s efforts to set and achieve DBE participation goals, fostering greater inclusion of small and minority-owned businesses in airport projects and operations.
The outreach initiative, spearheaded by CAE in collaboration with KRJ Consulting and Ken Weeden and Associates, seeks to make the airport a model for inclusive growth and transparency in aviation. Small and minority business owners, as well as those seeking to earn their DBE certification, are encouraged to register and attend.
To register for the first event, please visit the SOAR WITH US EventBrite page. Space is limited.
Now providing 31+ daily flights with nonstop service to 13 airports in 11 cities including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York City (LGA), Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. (Dulles and Reagan National) and seasonal service to Miami, Florida, CAE recently welcomed both Allegiant Air, which started service at CAE in May of 2025 and offers nonstop service to Orlando/Sanford and Fort Lauderdale and Spirit Airlines, which started service in June of 2025 and offers nonstop service to Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale and Newark, New Jersey (EWR). A two-time Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accredited facility, CAE continues to be a major economic driver for the Midlands region. Welcoming over 1.3 million passengers in 2024, CAE is served by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines and serves as a regional cargo hub for UPS and served by cargo carrier, FedEx.
