2026 At A Glance

Arrival + Coffee + Creator Networking

Start the day by meeting fellow filmmakers, creators, technologists and storytellers through guided networking prompts and collaboration opportunities.

Welcome Remarks

An opening conversation centered on collaboration over competition, building for ourselves and sustaining Black independent creative ecosystems.

Build Your Audience Ecosystem

A practical session focused on audience growth, community-building and creating direct relationships with supporters.

Networking Break

Making Money From Your Creativity

Explore pathways from independent projects to commercial opportunities, including pitching, client relationships and building sustainable creative income.

Lunch + Intentional Networking

Connect with fellow attendees through curated networking opportunities and conversation prompts.

Black Creativity in the AI Era: Protection, Power & Possibility

A thoughtful conversation exploring AI, creator rights, ownership, ethics and opportunity.

Break

The Ignition Studio: Google AI Sprint

A collaborative creator challenge where attendees experiment with emerging AI tools, storytelling workflows and audience growth strategies. It includes the opportunity to pitch for $5,000 in cash prizes.

Break

Building Boldly: Longevity, Visibility & Independent Storytelling

A closing fireside conversation on resilience, sustainability and building lasting creative careers.

Closing Grounding Exercise

A guided reflection helping attendees process the day, identify next steps and commit to future action.

Movies & Mimosas: kweliTV Spotlight

A curated screening celebrating Black independent storytelling, followed by conversation with filmmakers and creators.

Reception + AI Sprint Winner Announcement

Join us for a celebratory reception featuring wine, champagne, light bites, networking and the announcement of the Google AI Sprint winners.