Agenda

Agenda

time iconJuly 14, 2025 07:30 am to
08:10 am

Morning Energy Walk

speaker headshot

Vanny Mwamba
Urban Hikers

Main Lobby

Step away from the noise and into a moment of clarity. Urban Hikers: Conference Reset is a 30-minute guided walking experience designed to ease conference fatigue and restore your focus. This isn’t about networking, it’s about intentional decompression.

RSVP: https://urban-hikers.com/routes/hZlUDlTtQvdxPfGyCAqJ

time iconJuly 14, 2025 08:00 am to
09:00 am

Area 513 Running Club

speaker headshot

Derrick Braziel
Pata Roja

Starts in front of Aronoff Center

Ready for a Morning Run? Run with AREA 51(3) & Get a Breakfast Buritto from Pata Roja after!

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Doors Open

Aronoff

Doors open daily @ 9 AM

Registration Hours ⏰

Monday, July 14: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
09:45 am

JobsOhio Welcome Breakfast Featuring REDI Cincinnati

Aronoff: 2nd Floor Lobby

Start your day with good energy and even better company. Join us for the JobsOhio Welcome Breakfast featuring a curated mocktail bar, an energizing space to fuel up, connect, and set the tone for an inspiring week ahead.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
04:00 pm

Quiet Lounge

3rd Floor Lobby Aronoff Center

Need a place to get some work done in a quiet space? Need a break from all of the humans? Come upstairs to the 3rd floor to the Quiet Lounge and get away from it all.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Confidence Lab, Sponsored by Olay and Bevel

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) This activation is a self-care sanctuary where grooming meets greatness. Designed with founders and professionals in mind, this pop-up experience offers skincare touch-ups, grooming services, and light makeup to help you look as sharp as your pitch. Step in to reset, refresh, and walk out camera-ready, because confidence starts with how you show up.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
02:00 pm

Black Tech Week Café — Fueled by Hamilton County

1st Floor of the Aronoff Center

Proudly serving beans from Black Coffee, a local Black-owned cafe

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Crest Smile Lab

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) The Crest Smile Lab, inside our confidence lab at Black Tech Week is your one-stop glow-up for a picture-perfect presence. Swing by for complimentary professional headshots and a refresh with Crest whitening strips so your smile shines as bright as your ambition.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 09:55 am to
10:00 am

Hamilton County Commissioner Remarks

speaker headshot

Alicia Reece
Hamilton County Commissioner

P&G Hall - Mainstage
time iconJuly 14, 2025 10:00 am to
10:45 am

Creativity at Work

speaker headshot

Aya Philémon
Product Manager, Innovation and Exploration, Adobe

speaker headshot

Candy Glenn

P&G Hall - Mainstage

What does it mean to be creative in a fast-paced, tech-driven world? In this session, a seasoned product manager shares how creativity shows up in everyday decision-making, collaboration, and problem-solving. Whether you're building products, launching a brand, or leading a team, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas on how to bring more creativity and impact into your work.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 10:00 am to
03:00 pm

Espresso Vespa — Fueled by the City of Cincinnati

Jarson - Kaplan Lobby

Pull Up & Perk Up: Our espresso bar is serving bold shots and smooth sips from the cutest little truck you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re craving a quick caffeine fix or a cozy coffee moment, we’ve got handcrafted drinks on wheels—brewed with intention and a little bit of flair.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 10:00 am to
04:00 pm

513 Relief Bus, Sponsored by Hamilton County

Outside Aronoff on Walnut Street
Open Monday 10-12pm (Open Appointments ) 1-4pm (Open House)
Take a tour of Hamilton County’s 513Relief Bus – an innovative tech bus that delivers social and medical services to our residents. Hop on to see the 513Relief Bus in action! Meet with economic development leaders and explore key entrepreneur resources including tax advice, funding, loans, and contracting opportunities in Hamilton County.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 10:00 am to
04:00 pm

Febreze Meditation Studio

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery Four

Yoga at noon - Guided meditation session at 3pm

Find your center at the Febreze Meditation Studio, an oasis of calm tucked inside 21C, right across from the Aronoff Center. Recharge your mind with guided meditation sessions throughout the day, and join us for a refreshing midday yoga flow at noon. Surrounded by soothing scents and serene vibes, you’ll leave feeling grounded, clear, and ready to lead. Breathe in. Power up.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Driving B2B Sales

speaker headshot

Kelvin Johnson
CEO/ Co-Founder, Brevity

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Learn what it takes to close big deals and build lasting client relationships. This session explores proven strategies for navigating long sales cycles, winning enterprise customers, and scaling B2B revenue with confidence.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Academia to Entrepreneurship

speaker headshot

Christopher Boles
PhD Candidate, Cincinnati Children's

Green Room (2nd Floor Aronoff)

From research labs to revenue streams, this session explores how innovators are translating academic expertise into successful startups. Discover how to navigate the leap, leverage your network, and transform big ideas into tangible impact.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Beauty, Brains, and Bots: AI and Culture Driven Marketing

speaker headshot

Maya Smith
Cofounder, CEO, and Creative Director, The Doux

speaker headshot

Kyle Inskeep

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, cultural relevance, and brand storytelling. This session examines how marketers are utilizing AI to create campaigns that resonate while maintaining a human touch. From beauty to tech, learn how culture-first strategies powered by smart tools are reshaping the future of marketing.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 11:00 am to
05:00 pm

Cincinnati Art Museum Exhibits

Cincinnati Art Museum

Immerse yourself in creativity and culture at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Explore their current exhibits, which may include contemporary installations, historic masterpieces, or cutting-edge multimedia works.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Lunch @ Food Truck Alley

7th street between Walnut and Main Street

Please explore food trucks on 7th Street! Featuring : AJ's Cheeseteaks, Sugar, Maw Maw's, Off the Hook, Red Sesame

time iconJuly 14, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Yoga: Midday Wellness Upload

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

Gallery 4 21c Museum Hotel

A guide for you on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 12:00 pm to
05:00 pm

R&B Coffee House @ Urbana Cafe

speaker headshot

Sharod Holmes
Founder of holm

Urbana Cafe

A Cozy Cafe where Conversations Flow and Ideas Grow.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 01:00 pm to
01:45 pm

Promoting AI Startup Success

speaker headshot

Carlos Barksdale
Google

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Discover how emerging AI startups can scale smart, fast, and sustainably. This session unpacks the funding landscape, go-to-market strategies, and real-world challenges AI founders face, offering actionable insights to help your startup thrive in an ever-evolving tech ecosystem.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 02:00 pm to
03:00 pm

Fueling the Future of Small Business in Hamilton County

speaker headshot

Rachel DesRochers
Founder, Chief Gratitude Officer of The Gratitude Collective

speaker headshot

Greg Forte
Director at Alloy

speaker headshot

Sydnee Jackson
Events & Experience Lead at Cintrifuse

speaker headshot

Eric Kearney
African American Chamber of Commerce

P&G Hall - Mainstage
time iconJuly 14, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

Power in Preparing: A Strategic Framework for VC Financing Readiness

speaker headshot

Yvan-Claude Pierre
Partner at Cooley

speaker headshot

Dennis Craig II
Associate at Cooley

speaker headshot

Shelton Mercer III
Co-Founder & President at Audigent, a part of Experian

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre
time iconJuly 14, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

Getting on Shark Tank

speaker headshot

Brandon Andrews
Co-Founder at Gauge

Green Room (2nd Floor Aronoff)

Ever dreamed of pitching on Shark Tank? This session breaks down what it takes to land a spot, stand out, and seize the moment. Hear firsthand tips from founders who’ve done it, and learn how to prepare your business for the spotlight.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Meditation Moment with Febreze

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery 4

Nurture Your Growth, Reduce Stress, and Enhance Your Overall Well-Being.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

How Innovation Becomes Brand Power

speaker headshot

Latraviette Smith-Wilson
Chief Marketing & Equity Officer

speaker headshot

Charisma Deberry
VP of Communications at Horizon Media

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Great ideas don’t just disrupt industries, they build iconic brands. This session delves into how companies transform innovation into influence, examining the intersection of creativity, strategy, and storytelling that drives brand loyalty and market leadership.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

The Value of Inclusive Marketing in Today's Challenging Climate

speaker headshot

Eric Austin
Vice President, Marketing & Media Innovation at Procter & Gamble

speaker headshot

Lela Coffey
Vice President at Procter & Gamble

speaker headshot

Cedric Harville
Purchasing Director at P&G

speaker headshot

Marcus Glover
GP at Lockstep Ventures

P&G Hall - Mainstage

In a world where trust, representation, and relevance matter more than ever, inclusive marketing isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a business imperative. Join this session led by leaders at P&G as they share how inclusive strategies drive connection, build brand loyalty, and create lasting impact. Learn how to navigate today’s cultural landscape with authenticity, accountability, and purpose.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 05:00 pm to
07:00 pm

Black Tech Week Opening Reception Powered by JobsOhio

Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center

Kick off Black Tech Week at our Opening Reception powered by JobsOhio. Connect with fellow founders, investors, and innovators in a high-energy environment designed to spark meaningful conversations and new collaborations. Expect great music, good vibes, and the official welcome to an unforgettable week.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 05:30 pm to
07:00 pm

NetWalking Party by Cincy Black Travel

speaker headshot

Azizah Hillman
Founder: Cincy Black Travel & AZ Media

Meet in the Aronoff Center Plaza

Join Cincy Black Travel for a curated walk every day during Black Tech Week at 4 PM! The starting point is the Aronoff Center. Register at https://cincyblacktravel.com/

time iconJuly 14, 2025 06:00 pm to
10:00 pm

The Monday MashUp: Almost V'gan Lounge Powered by the BLK Foundation

speaker headshot

Joey Cromwell
Founder/Executive Director, The BLK Foundation

Almost V'gan Lounge

We meet up at Almost Vegan Lounge (34 E. Court Street Cincinnati, oh 45202) for "The Mash Up' with Dj Bright and Ferris Booler from 6-10p. RSVP: Here

time iconJuly 14, 2025 01:00 pm to
01:30 pm

Social Marketing Meetup powered by holm

Urbana Cafe

A casual networking event for content creators, marketers, and brand storytellers to connect, share ideas, and spark collaborations. Enjoy good coffee, creative conversation, and laid-back R&B vibes while building meaningful connections.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 04:00 pm to
04:30 pm

Song exchange powered by holm

Urbana Cafe

We’re creating a vibe-forward meetup for music lovers to swap playlists, discover new artists, and connect through shared sounds. Bring your favorite tracks, grab a drink, and dive into good music and even better conversations.

time iconJuly 14, 2025 06:00 pm to
10:00 pm

Tote & Toast - Cincinnati Culture Collective

Somerset Bar- 139 E McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio

Tote & Toast is a soulful night of creativity and connection, set against the stunning backdrop of Somerset. Surrounded by lush beauty and curated energy, guests will design custom totes while vibing to incredible music and engaging in conversation rooted in culture, care, and community. Powered by the Cincinnati Culture Collective, this evening is all about self-expression, shared joy, and building something meaningful together.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 08:00 am to
08:45 am

Area 513 Running Club

speaker headshot

Derrick Braziel
Pata Roja

Starts in front of Aronoff Center

Ready for a Morning Run? Run with AREA 51(3) & Get a Breakfast Buritto from Pata Roja after!

time iconJuly 15, 2025 08:00 am to
10:00 am

The 8AM Club - Black Coffee Lounge

Black Coffee Lounge- 824 Elm Street

Start Black Tech Week with stillness, substance, and community. Hosted by Black Coffee and Cincinnati Culture Collective, this special edition of 8AM Club is a grounding prelude to the week ahead—blending morning brews, meaningful dialogue, and shared intention. Set in a warm, reflective space, we’ll center culture, care, and community before the hustle begins. Come fill your cup literally and spiritually.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Doors Open

Aronoff

Doors open daily @ 9 AM

Registration Hours ⏰

Tuesday, July 15: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

time iconJuly 15, 2025 09:00 am to
04:00 pm

Quiet Lounge

3rd Floor Lobby Aronoff Center

Need a place to get some work done in a quiet space? Need a break from all of the humans? Come upstairs to the 3rd floor to the Quiet Lounge and get away from it all.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Confidence Lab, Sponsored by Olay and Bevel

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) This activation is a self-care sanctuary where grooming meets greatness. Designed with founders and professionals in mind, this pop-up experience offers skincare touch-ups, grooming services, and light makeup to help you look as sharp as your pitch. Step in to reset, refresh, and walk out camera-ready, because confidence starts with how you show up.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 09:00 am to
02:00 pm

Black Tech Week Café — Fueled by Hamilton County

1st Floor of the Aronoff Center

Proudly serving beans from Black Coffee, a local Black-owned cafe

time iconJuly 15, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Crest Smile Lab

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) The Crest Smile Lab, inside our confidence lab at Black Tech Week is your one-stop glow-up for a picture-perfect presence. Swing by for complimentary professional headshots and a refresh with Crest whitening strips so your smile shines as bright as your ambition.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 10:00 am to
10:45 am

The Business of Diligence: The Details That Kill Deals

speaker headshot

Derrick Maultsby
Managing Associate Attorney at Frost Brown Todd

speaker headshot

Wolf Starr
Managing Director at United States Angel Collective

speaker headshot

Sasha Mckenzie
Deal Lead at Wellington

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Big ideas need smart legal foundations. Join the experts at Frost Brown Todd as they break down the legal essentials every founder should know, from contracts and compliance to protecting your IP. Because the fine print can make or break the big picture.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 10:00 am to
10:45 am

How You Can win In The AI Race

speaker headshot

DJ Johnson
CEO and Founder, Sherpa Clouds Inc

speaker headshot

Brandon Johnson
Generative AI Product Tech Lead at NVIDIA

P&G Hall - Mainstage
“How You Can Win In The AI Race” Fireside Chat

Join us for a dynamic 45-minute fireside chat featuring Brandon Johnson, GenAI Product Tech Lead at NVIDIA and Angel Investor and DJ Johnson, CEO of Sherpa Clouds and Director of Enterprise Sales at Microsoft. This session, designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and tech professionals, dives deep into the strategies, predictions, and personal journeys that define success in the rapidly evolving world of AI


time iconJuly 15, 2025 10:00 am to
03:00 pm

Espresso Vespa — Fueled by the City of Cincinnati

Jarson - Kaplan Lobby

Pull Up & Perk Up: Our espresso bar is serving bold shots and smooth sips from the cutest little truck you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re craving a quick caffeine fix or a cozy coffee moment, we’ve got handcrafted drinks on wheels—brewed with intention and a little bit of flair.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 10:00 am to
04:00 pm

Febreze Meditation Studio

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery Four

Yoga at noon - Guided meditation session at 3pm

Find your center at the Febreze Meditation Studio, an oasis of calm tucked inside 21C, right across from the Aronoff Center. Recharge your mind with guided meditation sessions throughout the day, and join us for a refreshing midday yoga flow at noon. Surrounded by soothing scents and serene vibes, you’ll leave feeling grounded, clear, and ready to lead. Breathe in. Power up.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Personal Branding

speaker headshot

Ramon Ray
Publisher, ZoneofGenius.com

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Your brand is your reputation, your story, and your edge. This session explores how to craft a personal brand that opens doors, builds trust, and creates a lasting impact, both online and in real life.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Inside the Boardroom: Modern Board Leadership

speaker headshot

James D. White
Board Chair, Honest Company

speaker headshot

Sofia Stanley
Founder & Chief Disruptor, Redefining Esquire

P&G Hall - Mainstage

What does it take to lead at the highest level? This session pulls back the curtain on today’s boardrooms, exploring how modern leaders navigate governance, innovation, and impact. Hear from seasoned board members on what it takes to earn a seat and how to make it count.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 11:00 am to
05:00 pm

Cincinnati Art Museum: Exhibits

Cincinnati Art Museum

Immerse yourself in creativity and culture at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Explore their current exhibits, which may include contemporary installations, historic masterpieces, or cutting-edge multimedia works.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Lunch @ Food Truck Alley

7th street between Walnut and Main Street

Please explore food trucks on 7th Street! Featuring : Sugar, Maw Maw's, Off the Hook, Sweets and Meats, Paityn's Place

time iconJuly 15, 2025 12:00 pm to
07:00 pm

House of Rest: Grounded Voices, Guided Healing

speaker headshot

Sosha Vongdara
Founder, Owner & Lead Teacher | House of Wellness

615 Vine Street

A free, immersive mental health and wellness experience rooted in rest and led by lived wisdom. Including a grounding mental health panel, wellness-based activations, and a marketplace of wellness brands and creators.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 12:00 pm to
12:40 pm

Midday Reset Walk

speaker headshot

Vanny Mwamba
Urban Hikers

Main Lobby

Step outside with Urban Hikers for a 30-minute guided walk designed to combat conference fatigue and restore mental clarity. No networking, just intentional decompression. All fitness levels welcome. Limited to 20 participants.

RSVP: https://urban-hikers.com/routes/hZlUDlTtQvdxPfGyCAqJ

time iconJuly 15, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Yoga: Midday Wellness Upload

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

Gallery 4 21c Museum Hotel

A guide for you on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 12:00 pm to
05:00 pm

R&B Coffee House @ Urbana Cafe

speaker headshot

Sharod Holmes
Founder of holm

Urbana Cafe

A Cozy Cafe where Conversations Flow and Ideas Grow.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 01:00 pm to
01:45 pm

Secure the Bag: How to get Funding from a Large Foundation

speaker headshot

Kelley Cornish
CEO, T.D. Jakes Foundation

speaker headshot

Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
Contributing Writer/Correspondent at Black Enterprise

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Getting foundation funding doesn’t have to be a mystery. This session breaks down how to find the right fit, build relationships, and write proposals that win. Hear directly from foundation insiders on what they’re looking for and how to stand out in a crowded field.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

Designing for Demand: UX Research X Product Market Fit

speaker headshot

Jordan Ross
Sr UX Researcher at Adobe

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

You don’t find product-market fit, you design for it. This session dives into how UX research uncovers what users truly need, enabling you to build products that stick, scale, and sell. Discover how to transform insights into meaningful impact and develop solutions that meet market needs.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

Make it Make $ense: Modeling to Your First $1M

speaker headshot

Rod Walton
CEO of ThinkModa

P&G Hall

Numbers tell your business story if you know how to read them. This session breaks down the basics of financial modeling, enabling you to forecast revenue, understand costs, and make more informed decisions. Ideal for founders seeking clarity, confidence, and capital.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Find Your Leadership Style

speaker headshot

Luzerne McAllister
Curated Crescendo Coaching and Consulting

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

There’s no one way to lead, just your way. This session helps you uncover your unique leadership style, strengthen your presence, and lead with confidence and clarity. Whether you're building a team or scaling a vision, it all starts with understanding who you are.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Monetization of the Culture

speaker headshot

Bobby Joseph
Founder

speaker headshot

Damien Hooper-Campbell
Chief Impact Officer at StockX

speaker headshot

Michael Graham
Savant Studios

P&G Hall - Mainstage

From streetwear to storytelling, culture drives markets, and creators are reaping the rewards. This session explores how entrepreneurs are leveraging cultural capital to create tangible wealth, building businesses that reflect their identity, influence, and ownership in the digital age.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Meditation Moment with Febreze

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery 4

Nurture Your Growth, Reduce Stress, and Enhance Your Overall Well-Being.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 04:00 pm to
06:00 pm

Nostalgia Vino & Vibes Powered by Smart Mouth

Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge

Sip, socialize, and vibe to the classics. Powered by Smart Mouth, this evening mixer combines smooth wine, nostalgic beats, and engaging conversation for a laid-back night of connection, unwinding, and reminiscing in style.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 05:00 pm to
08:00 pm

Founder Funder Talk by LaunchPad

speaker headshot

Rod Walton
CEO of ThinkModa

Union Hall - 1311 Vine St

Real talk between founders and the funders backing them, from banks to VCs to accelerators. Powered by LaunchPad, this session unpacks what it takes to build, invest, and grow together.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 05:00 pm to
09:00 pm

Founder to Founder Rooftop Social

speaker headshot

Sharod Holmes
Founder of holm

Union Hall - 1311 Vine St

Join us at the Rooftop Social for free drinks, food and an energetic evening of curated networking, city skyline views, and meaningful connections. Enjoy access to local resources for founders, startup demos, and vibrant conversations.
RSVP: https://holmxbtw.holm.site

time iconJuly 15, 2025 05:30 pm to
07:00 pm

NetWalking Party by Cincy Black Travel

speaker headshot

Azizah Hillman
Founder: Cincy Black Travel & AZ Media

Meet in the Aronoff Center Plaza

Join Cincy Black Travel for a curated walk every day during Black Tech Week at 4 PM! The starting point is the Aronoff Center. Register at https://cincyblacktravel.com/

time iconJuly 15, 2025 06:00 pm to
10:00 pm

Tacos and Tequila at Vintage Powered by the BLK Foundation

speaker headshot

Joey Cromwell
Founder/Executive Director, The BLK Foundation

Vintage on Race

Good food, great vibes, and even better company. Join us at Vintage for an evening powered by the BLK Foundation, featuring flavorful tacos, handcrafted tequila cocktails, and conversations that keep the culture (and the night) flowing. RSVP:  Here

time iconJuly 15, 2025 06:00 pm to
11:00 pm

AfroArt After Dark Selfie Park & Cinema Night

speaker headshot

J. Nzingha Byrd
CEO of Sweet Sistah Splash

Washington Park

Lights, camera, culture. Step into a curated world of Black creativity at AfroArt After Dark, featuring immersive selfie installations and a laid-back cinema experience. Come for the photos, stay for the vibes, and celebrate the artistry that moves the culture forward.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 01:00 pm to
01:30 pm

B2C Founder Meetup powered by Develocode

Urbana Cafe

Getting in front of consumers is tough so we’re bringing together entrepreneurs and founders to connect, collaborate, exchange ideas, tactics and tool kits.

time iconJuly 15, 2025 04:00 pm to
04:30 pm

Ai Meetup powered by Dresscode

Urbana Cafe

AI is slowly growing to be an part of every early stage startup and we want to bring together folks to inverse around what things they’re enjoying the most with using it. Come sip coffee, share ideas, and engage in conversations at the intersection of AI, creativity, and culture.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 08:00 am to
08:45 am

Area 513 Running Club

speaker headshot

Derrick Braziel
Pata Roja

Starts in front of Aronoff Center

Ready for a Morning Run? Run with AREA 51(3) & Get a Breakfast Buritto from Pata Roja after!

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
10:00 am

Frost Brown Todd Venture Coffee Connect

speaker headshot

Derrick Maultsby
Managing Associate Attorney at Frost Brown Todd

Coffee Emporium @ 110 E Central Pkwy, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Legal clarity meets early-morning innovation. This is a space for founders, funders, and deal-shapers to fuel up, make meaningful connections, and spark bold ideas—one cup at a time. Join us to brew up insight, share strategy, and build what’s next with the people shaping the future of venture.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
02:00 pm

Doors Open

Aronoff

Doors open daily @ 9 AM

Registration Hours ⏰

Wednesday, July 16: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
10:30 am

Coffee & Conversation

speaker headshot

Zoe Carney
Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce

Kinley Hotel

Coffee & Conversation is a warm and welcoming space to start your day with connection and community. Designed for entrepreneurs, tech professionals, investors, and creatives, it’s the perfect place to share insights, spark new relationships, and ease into the day’s programming—coffee included.


time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
04:00 pm

Quiet Lounge

3rd Floor Lobby Aronoff Center

Need a place to get some work done in a quiet space? Need a break from all of the humans? Come upstairs to the 3rd floor to the Quiet Lounge and get away from it all.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
02:00 pm

Black Tech Week Café — Fueled by Hamilton County

1st Floor of the Aronoff Center

Proudly serving beans from Black Coffee, a local Black-owned cafe

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Crest Smile Lab

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) The Crest Smile Lab, inside our confidence lab at Black Tech Week is your one-stop glow-up for a picture-perfect presence. Swing by for complimentary professional headshots and a refresh with Crest whitening strips so your smile shines as bright as your ambition.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 09:00 am to
03:00 pm

Confidence Lab, Sponsored by Olay and Bevel

Center Stage Room

Weston Wing in Aronoff Center (Left of Main Stage) This activation is a self-care sanctuary where grooming meets greatness. Designed with founders and professionals in mind, this pop-up experience offers skincare touch-ups, grooming services, and light makeup to help you look as sharp as your pitch. Step in to reset, refresh, and walk out camera-ready, because confidence starts with how you show up.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
10:45 am

Strategic Attraction: Becoming the Startup Corporations Want to Work With

speaker headshot

Demetrice Mcclurkin
Vice President at Procter & Gamble

speaker headshot

Kevin McCarthy
Senior Director at P&G

speaker headshot

Marcus Glover
GP at Lockstep Ventures

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Big brands are looking for bold ideas. This session explores how startups can position themselves as must-have partners, from refining your value prop to navigating procurement and building trust. Learn what makes corporations say “yes” and how to stand out in a crowded market.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
10:45 am

Clicks, Comments & Conversions: Decoding Consumer Behavior in Real Time

speaker headshot

Ava Toro
Global Insights Lead Researcher at Reddit

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Explore how real-time data is transforming the way brands understand, engage, and convert their audiences. This session unpacks the signals behind every swipe, scroll, and share, and how to turn them into actionable insights that drive growth.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
03:00 pm

Espresso Vespa — Fueled by the City of Cincinnati

Jarson - Kaplan Lobby

Pull Up & Perk Up: Our espresso bar is serving bold shots and smooth sips from the cutest little truck you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re craving a quick caffeine fix or a cozy coffee moment, we’ve got handcrafted drinks on wheels—brewed with intention and a little bit of flair.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
03:00 pm

Retro Gaming Lounge

Green Room (2nd Floor Aronoff)

Step into the Gaming Lounge and Relive 25 years of Tech with Classic Emulators—Play Your Favorites, Level Up Your Nostalgia!

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
04:00 pm

Febreze Meditation Studio

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery Four

Yoga at noon - Guided meditation session at 3pm

Find your center at the Febreze Meditation Studio, an oasis of calm tucked inside 21C, right across from the Aronoff Center. Recharge your mind with guided meditation sessions throughout the day, and join us for a refreshing midday yoga flow at noon. Surrounded by soothing scents and serene vibes, you’ll leave feeling grounded, clear, and ready to lead. Breathe in. Power up.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 10:00 am to
04:00 pm

VC Matchmaking Powered By Frost Brown Todd

speaker headshot

Derrick Maultsby
Managing Associate Attorney at Frost Brown Todd

- Invitation Only Event - VC Matchmaking brings together a carefully curated group of venture capitalists and angel investors who are actively seeking innovative investment opportunities. This event offers founders a platform to pitch their ideas, showcase their business, and receive feedback directly from industry experts.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

Tech is Ohio: A Fireside Chat on Opportunity & Growth

speaker headshot

Monica Womack
Chief, Minority Business Division at Ohio Department of Development

speaker headshot

Barb Smith
President at Journey Steel, Inc.

P&G Hall - Mainstage

From startup hubs to enterprise innovation, Ohio is shaping the future of tech in the Midwest and beyond. Join this fireside chat with industry leaders as they discuss the state’s growing ecosystem, emerging opportunities, and what it takes to thrive in Ohio’s evolving tech landscape.


time iconJuly 16, 2025 11:00 am to
08:00 pm

Cincinnati Art Museum: Exhibits

Cincinnati Art Museum

Immerse yourself in creativity and culture at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Explore their current exhibits, which may include contemporary installations, historic masterpieces, or cutting-edge multimedia works.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 11:00 am to
11:45 am

AI Productivity and Modern Work

speaker headshot

Dean Carson
Workforce AI Solutions Lead at Microsoft

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Work has never stood still. From typewriters and filing cabinets to cloud platforms, every era has reshaped how we create, connect, and lead. This session walks through the evolution of work — where we’ve been, where we are now, and what the near future holds as AI enters the picture. Whether you’re building a startup or scaling one, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of what’s really changing in how we work — and how to move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Yoga: Midday Wellness Upload

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

Gallery 4 21c Museum Hotel

A guide for you on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 12:00 pm to
05:00 pm

R&B Coffee House @ Urbana Cafe

speaker headshot

Sharod Holmes
Founder of holm

Urbana Cafe

A Cozy Cafe where Conversations Flow and Ideas Grow.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 12:00 pm to
01:00 pm

Lunch @ Food Truck Alley

7th street between Walnut and Main Street

Please explore food trucks on 7th Street! Featuring : AJ's Cheeseteaks, Sugar, Maw Maw's, Off the Hook, Red Sesame

time iconJuly 16, 2025 12:55 pm to
01:00 pm

Pre-Keynote Remarks from J.P. Nauseef and Mayor Aftab

speaker headshot

J.P. Nauseef
President & CEO at JobsOhio

speaker headshot

Aftab Pureval
Mayor of Cincinnati

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Hear from our lead sponsors at JobsOhio as they share their vision for innovation, inclusive growth, and the future of tech in Ohio. Learn how they're fueling opportunity across the state—and why Black Tech Week is a key part of that mission.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 01:00 pm to
01:45 pm

Master of Me: A Conversation with Keke Palmer and Candice Matthews Brackeen

speaker headshot

KeKe Palmer
Actress, Producer, and Founder of KeyTV Network

speaker headshot

Candice Matthews Brackeen
CEO of Lightship

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Join Keke Palmer for an intimate conversation on building a career rooted in authenticity, impact, and fearless reinvention. Moderated by the CEO of Lightship Foundation, Candice Matthews-Brackeen, this session explores how purpose fuels power, and how possibility expands when you boldly bet on yourself.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

The Case for Building Wealth in Unsexy Industries

speaker headshot

Ramon Ray
Publisher, ZoneofGenius.com

speaker headshot

Stephen Hightower
President CEO, Hightowers Petroleum Co.

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Not every billion-dollar idea comes wrapped in buzzwords. This session dives into the overlooked, unglamorous industries where real money is made. Learn why these “unsexy” sectors offer serious opportunities for sustainable wealth and long-term growth.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 02:00 pm to
02:45 pm

Operational Excellence using AI

speaker headshot

Alex Malebranche
Global Lead Startups, GitHub

Jarson - Kaplan Theatre

Discover how AI is driving smarter, faster, and more efficient business operations. This session explores the practical ways organizations are utilizing AI to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making, paving the way for scalable and sustainable growth.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Spirits, Strategy, and Scaling: Fawn Weaver’s Blueprint for Building Iconic Brands

speaker headshot

Fawn Weaver
Founder and CEO, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey

speaker headshot

Calvin L. Butts Jr.
Co-Founder & General Partner, East Chop Capital

P&G Hall - Mainstage

Go inside the mind of visionary entrepreneur Fawn Weaver as she shares the strategy behind building brands that last. From launching Uncle Nearest to redefining legacy, Fawn unpacks the mindset, playbook, and purpose that power her success, and how you can apply the same principles to scale your own.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 03:00 pm to
03:45 pm

Meditation Moment with Febreze

speaker headshot

Brandi Colvin
Brandi Bee

21c Museum Hotel - Gallery 4

Nurture Your Growth, Reduce Stress, and Enhance Your Overall Well-Being.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 04:30 pm to
05:10 pm

Networking Stride Walk

speaker headshot

Vanny Mwamba
Urban Hikers

Main Lobby

Close out the week with clarity. This 30-minute guided walk with Urban Hikers is designed to help you decompress, reflect on your experience, and head into the final stretch feeling refreshed, present, and grounded.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 04:00 pm to
05:30 pm

NetWalking Party by Cincy Black Travel

speaker headshot

Azizah Hillman
Founder: Cincy Black Travel & AZ Media

Meet in the Aronoff Center Plaza

Join Cincy Black Travel for a curated walk every day during Black Tech Week at 4 PM! The starting point is the Aronoff Center. Register at https://cincyblacktravel.com/

time iconJuly 16, 2025 07:00 pm to
10:00 pm

Rewind Wednesday - Powered by the BLK Foundation

speaker headshot

Joey Cromwell
Founder/Executive Director, The BLK Foundation

Baru

Close out the conference on a high note. Powered by the BLK Foundation, Rewind Wednesday is a nostalgic celebration of culture, connection, and community. Expect feel-good music, laid-back vibes, and a space to reflect, recharge, and celebrate everything we’ve built together during the week. RSVP: Here

time iconJuly 16, 2025 05:00 pm to
07:00 pm

Official BTW Closing Ceremony

Pins Mechanical

Join us as we close out Black Tech Week with gratitude, reflection, and celebration. The Closing Ceremony brings the community together one last time to highlight key moments, honor our collective achievements, and leave you inspired to carry the momentum forward throughout the year.

time iconJuly 16, 2025 07:00 pm to
11:00 pm

Timeless Taste

Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge

Whiskey and cigar vibe by Nostalgia in partnership with Uncle Nearest.