Newark Symphony Hall’s flagship event is back for another year of impact. The Black Creative Economy (BCE) is an experiential vehicle that drives the conversation of equity and offers growth and investment opportunities for multi-discipline artists while celebrating the economic impact of New Jersey’s Black and Brown creatives.
As the largest Black Arts institution and venue, Newark Symphony Hall is committed to promoting and amplifying the power and impact of BCE. The BCE’s mission is to foster an environment that celebrates and uplifts Black creatives, shaping the future of industries through collaboration, innovation, and transformative partnerships.
With invaluable investment from our sponsors, impact investors and art anchor institutions, we collectively honor and empower Black creatives, paving the way for a future that redefines boundaries and unleashes the boundless potential of THE BLACK CREATIVE ECONOMY.
June 24
Cocktails & Creativity
EXPERIENCE: An exciting evening of culture hosted by Newark’s Anchoring Arts Institutions. Join us for live entertainment, supporting the iconic powerbrokers curating Newark’s art scene.
TIME: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
LOCATION: Newark Symphony Hall Alley
HOST: Lauren Craig, Darryl Dwayne and Kitab Rollins
June 25
Networking Breakfast
Sponsored by United
EXPERIENCE: The United Networking Breakfast is designed to foster connections and start the day with one-on-one relationship building.
TIME: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
NSH Presents: The Power Behind Impact
PANEL: Focusing on the dynamic intersection of the Black Creative Economy, Newark Symphony Hall will discuss international industry leaders as they explore the transformative influence, economic empowerment, and cultural resonance driving innovation and change within this vibrant community.
TIME: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
PANELISTS: Talia L. Young & Carolyn Concepcion
Audible Presents: Embracing + Empowering the Creator
PANEL: TBA
TIME: 10:50 AM – 11:40 AM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
PANELISTS: TBD
The Art of Black Entrepreneurship
Newark Alliance Presents: The Art of Black Entrepreneurship
PANEL: The Art of Black Entrepreneurship: Black Business and Placemaking Anchoring the Future of Halsey Street. Centering the conversation on downtown Newark and more specifically, Halsey Street, this panel discussion will explore the creation of Newark’s Arts and Education District as an important economic development strategy and the role that Newark’s Black entrepreneurs play in placemaking and the future of downtown Newark.
The session will explore topics around the vision of the Arts and Education District, opportunities and challenges facing small business retailers and the importance of placemaking and creating a strong place identity.
TIME: 11:50 AM – 12:35 PM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
PANELISTS: Victoria Walker, Rashad Davis , Justis Pitt-Goodson and Kwanele Mpanza
Cannapreneur Festival
EXPERIENCE: Outside, March for Equity will host an interactive market with vendors, food, live music, vibes, ancillary cannabis companies, dispensaries and much more! We invite summit guests to learn the essentials about today’s cannabis industry.
TIME: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
LOCATION: Black Newark Mural, Newark Symphony Hall Parking Lot
Amanda Seals, Keynote Speaker
KEYNOTE: Get ready to be inspired as Amanda Seales takes the stage as our keynote speaker! Known for her wit, wisdom, and fearless approach, Amanda will captivate audiences with her unique blend of humor and intellect. From navigating societal issues to embracing personal empowerment, Amanda’s keynote promises to ignite thought, spark conversation, and leave a lasting impact.
TIME: 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
KENYA GIPSON – IHeart Presents: The Power Move
PANEL: Building brand equity and moving from mediocre to monetization through innovation and insights from media and marketing Power Players.
TIME: 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
PANELISTS: Kenya Gipson, Brandon Scoop B” Robinson, Moses Rivers, and Julia Hutchinson
New Jersey Arts & Culture Administrators of Color Cocktail Reception
EXPERIENCE: Join us for an engaging meet and greet hosted by the New Jersey Arts & Culture Administrators of Color Network. Explore the intersection of art, culture, and diversity with industry leaders, as we discuss innovative approaches to advancing equity and representation in the arts. Gain valuable insights and connect with fellow professionals passionate about driving positive change in our community.
TIME: 3:15 PM – 5:00 PM
June 26
Lincoln Park Jazzy Soul Series: North to Shore Edition
EXPERIENCE: Influenced by Amiri Baraka’s love of jazz, Lincoln Park Jazzy Soul Series introduces jazz infused live soul music to a new generation of music lovers.
TIME: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
LOCATION: Terrace Ballroom
