2025 Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala Celebrates Black-Owned Businesses and Creativity

The fourth annual event raised record funds, awarded grants to Black entrepreneurs, and spotlighted resilience in the face of challenges like the Los Angeles wildfires.

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.