The Black entrepreneurship community came together for a night of celebration and empowerment at a star-studded gala. Guests including Lake Bell, Chloe Bailey, Ryan Destiny, and Winnie Harlow gathered around tables, where Emma Grede, chairwoman of the Fifteen Percent Pledge, highlighted the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. As Grede encouraged donations through a QR code on the gala program, phones were quickly raised across the ballroom, showcasing the collective dedication to the cause.
Grede emphasized the need for Black founders to focus on creating exceptional products and expanding their audience reach. She stressed the importance of both community support and scalability for long-term success in the industry. The evening also honored Tina Knowles for her unwavering commitment to uplifting Black creatives and entrepreneurs, with Kelly Rowland presenting her with a prestigious award.
Sloane Stephens, founder of wellness brand Doc & Glo, spoke about the impact that public figures can have on supporting emerging entrepreneurs. She highlighted the significance of even small gestures such as social media engagement in driving visibility and growth for Black-owned businesses. Musician Chloe Bailey echoed this sentiment, noting the urgency and energy present in today’s music scene as artists respond to global events.
The gala also saw tangible support for founders, with Sephora executive Priya Venkatesh awarding a $100,000 grant to Denise Vasi, founder of Maed Beauty. This gesture underscored the retail industry’s role in providing access to capital and shelf space for Black entrepreneurs. Throughout the night, organizer Aurora James emphasized the importance of community as the foundation for lasting change, encouraging attendees to stay engaged and support each other.
The celebration extended beyond the gala with the Fifteen Percent Pledge Block Party at Paramount Studios, offering a platform for the public to shop Black-owned brands and engage with founder panels, beauty tutorials, and more. The event aimed to create sustained economic impact and visibility for Black designers and entrepreneurs who often face barriers to opportunities.
The gala showcased the ongoing momentum in the Black entrepreneurship community, with the Fifteen Percent Pledge continuing to advocate for expanded opportunities and economic growth. As the event demonstrated, supporting Black-owned businesses is not just about awareness but about building infrastructure and ensuring lasting impact in the industry.
