Black Founders & Executives Reception: CBC Week Edition

Join a chill hangout with Black founders and execs to network, share stories, and celebrate CBC Week vibes. About This Event: During one of the most dynamic weeks in Washington, DC, skip the overcrowded, uncurated lines and join us for an evening of high-signal connections, authentic conversations, and strategic collaborations. Black Founders & Executives Reception: CBC Week Edition brings together accomplished entrepreneurs, corporate executives, policy advisors, investors, and innovative changemakers for an upscale, structured networking salon in the heart of Downtown DC. Hosted at the sophisticated The Continent DC (1110 Vermont Ave NW), this ticketed reception is designed to eliminate the friction of typical conference mixers. With strictly managed capacity, your ticket guarantees seamless entry, premium hospitality, and access to curated industry circles. What to Expect: • Guaranteed, Fast-Track Entry: No standing in endless outdoor lines or risking at-capacity rejection. Your ticket secures your place in the room. • Curated Industry Breakouts: Structured networking zones focusing on High-Growth Tech & AI, Venture & Capital Access, Policy & Advocacy, and Creative Enterprise. • Craft Sips & Passed Bites: Enjoy handcrafted specialty cocktails, curated wines, non-alcoholic selections, and artisanal light hors d'oeuvres in an upscale setting. • High-Signal Community: A room filled with decision-makers, executives, and founders actively looking to build lasting partnerships and share opportunities. The Venue: The Continent DC Address: 1110 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005 The Atmosphere: Located just steps from K Street and McPherson Square, The Continent DC combines modern luxury, warm lighting, and a refined aesthetic—making it the premier setting for high-level evening connections. Event Schedule (Run of Show): • 5:00 PM – 5:45 PM | Fast-Track Check-in & Welcome Cocktail Mixer • Arrive, claim your welcome drink, enjoy passed hors d'oeuvres, and warm up connections in the main lounge. • 5:45 PM – 6:15 PM | Welcome Remarks & 30-Second VIP Founder Spotlights • Brief welcome from the host and live mic spotlights featuring innovative companies and leaders in the room. • 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM | Facilitated Industry Connection Circles • Interactive breakout tables divided by sector (Tech/AI, Policy, Finance/Capital, and Business Services). • 7:15 PM – 8:00 PM | Open Executive Networking & Evening Wrap-Up • Unstructured social time to finalize connections before evening galas and dinners. Meet Your Host & Facilitator Marcus Vance | Managing Director & Community Lead (Vanguard Leadership Forum) Marcus is an executive consultant and business strategist specializing in public-private partnerships, enterprise growth, and minority-led business development. With over a decade of experience organizing high-impact professional salons in Washington, DC, Marcus designs curated spaces that connect policy, technology, and capital to foster sustainable economic empowerment.