Overview

• The gala, hosted by Aurora James and actress Yvonne Orji, raised funds to support Black-owned businesses, including those impacted by the recent Los Angeles wildfires.
• Over $300,000 in grants were awarded to Black entrepreneurs, including a $200,000 Achievement Award to RedDrop and a $100,000 Sephora Beauty Grant to Sienna Naturals co-founded by Issa Rae.
• Attendees included prominent figures such as Kelly Rowland, Keke Palmer, Ciara, and Teyana Taylor, many wearing designs from Black-owned fashion brands.
• The event featured a block party with storefronts showcasing Black-owned brands and book signings by authors like Yvonne Orji and Meena Harris.
• Since its inception, the Fifteen Percent Pledge has redirected $14 billion in corporate spending to Black-owned businesses, reinforcing its mission of economic equity and opportunity.