EVENT SCHEDULE

TUESDAY, SEPT 19

8:00PM: A Space of Our Own: Music & Cultural Curation, Live Performance by Ambré

Our soundstage will be graced by the incredible Ambré, a recent performer at Roc Nation’s Showcase ‘A Night of R&B’ in NYC and NPR’s Tiny Desk series.

Her unique and soulful sound landed her a #1 song on R&B Radio and earned her a supporting role on Grammy-Nominated Lucky Daye’s North American tour.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT 20

1:00PM: Connect and Collab Midday Meetup, hosted by Black Innovation Alliance

Exploring opportunities for entrepreneurial and economic advancement for Black founders and start-ups with the insights of leaders in the venture capital and angel investment space.

2:00PM: Cultivating Community Growth – Nurturing a Thriving Local Ecosystem Lightning Talks Powered by Black Innovation Alliance

Moderated by India Fordham

Speakers include Monique Ekundayo, LaKisha Greenwade, Tanya Morris, Preston James

In this series of dynamic and concise presentations, visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and community builders will share their insights and strategies for fostering vibrant local ecosystems that drive innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development. Uncover practical takeaways and success stories that will showcase the power of interconnected networks in propelling communities forward. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community advocate, or simply curious about cultivating local growth, these talks are designed to inspire, inform, and spark actionable ideas for nurturing a thriving local ecosystem.

4:00PM: Advancing Black Innovation: Breaking Barriers, Investing, and Inspiring Economic Growth

Moderated by Luis Martinez

Speakers include Renee King, Lisa Osborne, Jan Baker, Twanna Harris

A dynamic and insightful discussion that brings together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders, and advocates to explore the pivotal role of Black innovation in driving economic progress. Through candid conversations and expert insights, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the systemic barriers that have historically hindered Black entrepreneurs and innovators, while also discovering strategies to dismantle these barriers and foster a more inclusive ecosystem. With a focus on investment, mentorship and empowerment, the panel aims to inspire actionable steps that can lead to sustainable economic growth, amplifying the impact of Black innovation and fostering a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

5:00PM: Fireside Chat with USPTO Director Vidal and Founder of ShearShare Courtney Caldwell

7:00PM: Fireside Chat with Joe Freshgoods and Autumn Merritt of Soho House

7:30PM: DJ Reception with DC’s own Mathias

THURSDAY, SEPT 21

12:00PM: The Business of Beauty

Brown Girl Jane Founder – Malaika Jones, National Urban League Senior Director of Tech Policy and Telcom – Alisa Valentin, Richualist Founder Dawn Myers, Lamik Founder Kim Roxie

1:00PM: In Conversation with Gene Kimmelman and Spill Founder Phonz Terrell

Goldwater Ventures CEO – Prince Albert, Spill Founder – Phonz Terrell, and Senior Fellow Yale’s Tobin Center and Harvard Kennedy School – Gene Kimmelman

A discussion on the health of tech startup ecosystems and strategies to promote BIPOC entrepreneurship.

5:00PM: The Power of IP

IIPSJ Founder – Professor Lateef Mtima,  Author, Pop Culture Critic, and Journalist – Helena Andrews, Singer, Songwriter Juan Winans, and US Copyright Office Director of Public Information and Education – Miriam Lord

A discussion on the power of intellectual property and the creative contributions of BIPOC communities while exploring strategies to help communities share, protect, and monetize their work.

6:00PM: Honoring Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden with special guests US Copyright Office Director Shira Perlmutter and Well-Read Black Girl Founder Glory Edim

FRIDAY, SEPT 22

4:00 PM: “Raising Our Voice and Owning Our Narrative”, A Conversation with award-winning actor, director, producer, and activist Kerry Washington

5:00PM: “Lifting up Black Narratives”, a film screening