Unlocking Global Markets: Your Ultimate EMSDC Member Guide to the 2026 Global Business Forum

As an EMSDC-certified member business, the quest for your next growth opportunity is ongoing. Entering international markets may seem like a daunting leap, but imagine having a direct path to connect with buyers and partners from over 90 countries, all without leaving the U.S.

Introducing the Pennsylvania Global Commerce Network and the 2026 WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF). These two powerful, interconnected resources designed to put your business on the world stage.

What is Pennsylvania Global Commerce Network? How Does It Impact Me as an EMSDC Member?

The “Pennsylvania Global Commerce Network” is a dynamic collaboration aimed at connecting local Pennsylvania businesses with global opportunities. This partnership unites WTC Greater Philadelphia, WTC Pittsburgh, and EMSDC to foster international growth.

As an EMSDC member, this partnership creates a unified, streamlined gateway to global opportunities. Instead of navigating international trade alone, you now have a direct connection to:

A Global Network: Instant access to over 300 World Trade Centers in 90+ countries.
Supplier Diversity Integration: A clear pipeline to connect your MBE certification with international corporate supply chains.
Preferential Access: Early visibility and tailored engagement opportunities for the biggest global business event of 2026—the Global Business Forum.

In short, our organizations are joining forces to connect the dots between your local success and global expansion, giving you a competitive edge you couldn’t get otherwise.

What is the Global Business Forum?

The Global Business Forum (GBF) serves as the World Trade Centers Association’s (WTCA) flagship annual event. Likened to a “World Championship” for business, it convenes over 800 participants from 90+ countries for four days rich with top-tier networking and opportunity creation.

In 2026, this global event is being in Philadelphia, PA from April 19-22, a historic moment coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary. It also positions our region as a central hub for international commerce. For local businesses, it’s a rare opportunity to meet the world without the cost of international travel.

How Can My Local Business Benefit from Attending?

For our regionally-based business, attending the GBF is one of the most efficient “on-ramps” to international expansion you’ll ever find. Here’s how your business stands to gain:

Meet the World at Home: Engage with over 150 international delegations and decision-makers who are coming to you. It’s global access without the global travel cost.
Generate Real Leads: This isn’t just a passive conference. With a strong focus on curated B2B matchmaking, the GBF puts you directly in front of pre-vetted international buyers, investors, and partners with real purchasing power.
Unlock New Markets: Whether you’re an exporter looking for new distributors or an MBE ready to scale globally, the GBF provides direct pathways into new markets.
Leverage the EMSDC Partnership: As an EMSDC member, you have preferred access to the Pennsylvania Global Commerce Network, which offers exclusive registration options and elevated positioning leading up to the Forum.

What Can I Expect at the Global Business Forum?

The Global Business Forum is designed for outcomes, not just observation. Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you:

Executive-Level Programming: Attend keynote sessions (featuring top leaders like Governor Shapiro), themed workshops, and panels focused on global growth.
Curated B2B Matchmaking: Before and during the event, you’ll have access to a platform designed to schedule one-on-one meetings with the specific delegates, buyers, or investors you want to see.
Targeted Networking: From the Welcome Reception and Regional Receptions to the final Gala Dinner, every event is structured to foster meaningful connections.
Specialized Summits & Tours: Depending on your pass, you can access focused sessions like the Real Estate Summit or choose from a variety of business and cultural tours around Philadelphia on the final day.

What are the Costs of This Event?

Thanks to the Pennsylvania Global Commerce Network, EMSDC members have access to exclusive, non-public registration options designed to fit your goals and budget. Here are the primary ways to participate:

The “Global Growth Bundle” (Best Value for Serious Exporters)

- Cost: $750 until April 4th (contact Kira Cofield at kcofield@emsdc.org for access to this member exclusive rate)
- What it is: The full, comprehensive B2B Delegate pass giving you access to all programming, matchmaking, and networking events from April 20-22.
- The EMSDC Bonus: This price includes a complimentary 1-year WTCGP Corporate Membership, giving you the tools and network to follow up on your GBF connections and pursue global opportunities all year long.

The “2-Day B2B Delegate Pass” (For Focused Networking)

- Cost: $400 until April 4th (contact Kira Cofield at kcofield@emsdc.org for access to this member exclusive rate)
- What it is: A streamlined pass perfect for local companies with limited time. You’ll get access to all themed workshops, keynote sessions, and—most importantly—the B2B matchmaking platform and on-site networking on the two main days of the Forum.
- Who it’s for: Companies who want to focus on high-value connections and panels without the full multi-day commitment.

The “GBF Statewide Partner” Sponsorship (For Maximum Visibility)

- Cost: $5,000
- What it is: Elevate your company from attendee to distinguished partner.
- Benefits Include: 2 B2B tickets to the Forum, recognition as a Partner-Level sponsor in all GBF communications, priority B2B matchmaking with international delegations, and an elevated profile within the WTCA global network. This is for companies looking to make a major impact and secure high-level meetings.

The “Regional Delegation Pass”

- Cost: Up to 30% off a B2B Delegate pass for groups of 10+ businesses
- What it is: Join EMSDC/WTCPGH’s Regional Business Delegation to save extra on your GBF tickets and represent the network on a global scale.
- How to get involved: Apply to be a part of the of our network’s delegation, and someone from our team will reach out with following steps.

The world is coming to Philadelphia in April 2026. Don’t just watch from the sidelines. As an EMSDC member, you have a direct path to the heart of the action. Choose the access level that fits your ambition and prepare to cultivate your next business frontier!

About World Trade Center Pittsburgh World Trade Center Pittsburgh (WTCPGH) is a business network and services organization dedicated to the International success of companies in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Now a part of the EMSDC network, it combines global trade expertise with a commitment to dynamic supply chains. Learn more at wtcpgh.org.

About EMSDC EMSDC serves Pennsylvania, Delaware and southern New Jersey as one of 23 regional supplier development councils promoting dynamic supply chains and connecting certified member businesses with corporate partners. As the license holder for WTCPGH, EMSDC empowers businesses to expand globally. Learn more at emsdc.org.