Newark Symphony Hall Presents:
The Black Creative Economy Summit
The Black Creative Economy is a gathering of artists, corporations, nonprofits, investors, and students discussing the impact and opportunities for all creative industries. Hosted by the Largest Black Arts Institution in the State, Newark Symphony Hall offers a platform to share ideas, network, and collaborate on strategies to promote and invest in cultural ownership. Designed in partnership with Lincoln Park Coast Cultural District and Newark Arts Council, who are leading the conversation and investing in Newark’s creative place-makers and arts economy.
The Black Creative Economy Summit is not only a space to empower cultural ownership, but prioritizes equity, and encourages representation in creative industries by fostering investment opportunities in technology, film & media, and performing arts. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, learn from industry leaders, and collaborate with other entrepreneurs and investors.
Download Event Program (PDF)
Summit’s 3-Day Agenda
June 20, 2023
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Terrace Ballroom Grand Opening
We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our newly renovated Terrace Ballroom! After months of hard work and dedication, we are proud to invite you to witness the culmination of our efforts. Our Terrace Ballroom has undergone a complete transformation to provide you with the ultimate event experience.
June 21, 2023
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Know Your Stage Networking Breakfast & Opening Ceremony
The Know Your Stage Networking Breakfast is designed to foster connections and build relationships within the creative community. Attendees will have an opportunity to network with a diverse group of industry professionals and creatives in our newly renovated Terrace Ballroom.
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Panel: Thriving in the Arts
Featuring Talia Young, Lyvan Munlyn, David Byer-Tyre, Alysia Souder
This panel will provide aspiring artists with a realistic perspective on what it takes to make a career in the arts, as well as practical advice on how to achieve their goals. It’s an opportunity for artists to learn from the experiences of successful professionals in their field and to gain insights that can help them navigate the challenges of the industry.
10:55 AM – 11:40 AM: Panel: Lifting voices through Power of Art and Storytelling
Featuring Anthony Frasier, Britt McCombs, Nina Cooke John
This panel will highlight the ways in which groundbreaking innovators and creators of color are amplifying voices and sharing stories that need to be told. Moderated by Aisha Glover, from visual artists to storytellers, we believe creatives of all types have the power to uplift important voices and transform minds and hearts. Audible is committed to doing so, both on our platform and in our community.
11:50 AM – 12:35 PM: Panel: Developing While Black: Creative For The Culture
Featuring Anthony Smith, Marjorie Perry, Jean-Pierre Brutus, Sharnita C. Johnson and special remarks by Mayor Ras J. Baraka
Lincoln Park Coast Cultural District’s DWB “Developing While Black: Creative Placemaking For The Culture” Creative Placemaking for the Culture is a dynamic and informative session that explores the transformative potential of creative placemaking in promoting cultural equity and building vibrant communities. The panel will examine the direct lineage from 90 years post New Deal redlining, the Black wealth gap attributed to lack of real estate ownership, and struggle to find balance in a world class vibrant arts city – The City of Newark – during its post-COVID renaissance era marked by tremendous development and revitalization. Through a series of interactive conversations, data and case studies, attendees will gain valuable insights into how creative placemaking can help to foster inclusive and equitable communities where diverse voices and perspectives are valued and celebrated.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: David Banner Keynote Address: Own the Culture
Featuring David Banner
Our keynote speech featuring David Banner, will focus on the importance of cultural ownership and representation in the black creative economy.
2:05 PM – 2:50 PM: Funder’s Speed Dating
This is an exciting opportunity for startup founders to connect with investors and pitch their ideas in a fast-paced, speed dating format. Founders can receive feedback on their ideas, while investors can discover new and innovative startups to invest in.
3:15 PM – 4:00 PM: Revolutionizing Content Consumption
Featuring Rahman J. Dukes, Lenny Hansen, Sway Calloway, Shaheem Reid
This panel will drive the importance of ownership and how artists can leverage their intellectual talent.
4:10 PM – 4:55 PM: Panel: Straight to the Money
Featuring, Medina, Laura Bonas Palmer, Andrew Binger, Jeffrey L. Page
Hosted by the Newark Arts Council and moderated by Chris Watson, industry experts will share insights and strategies for making money in the arts, while focusing on promoting equity and cultural ownership in the creative industry, and empowering Black-owned businesses and organizations.
June 22, 2023
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Behind the Scenes Tour & Artist Mixer
Join us at the Artist Mixer for an unforgettable night of networking, collaboration, and celebration of the vibrant artistry and creativity of Black artists!
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: NIFF presents: Laff Mobb’s RISING STARS of Comedy
Get ready to laugh out loud and experience the hilarious talent of Bob Sumner and other top comedians at the Newark International Film Festival’s Bob Sumner Comedy showcase!
