Los Angeles shined brightly on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as the Fifteen Percent Pledge hosted its annual Fundraising Gala at Paramount Studios, bringing together philanthropy, culture, and economic empowerment in support of Black entrepreneurs nationwide. The star-studded evening, hosted by journalist and CNN anchor Abby Phillip, marked a powerful moment of celebration and impact—highlighted by a $100,000 grant awarded to MAED Beauty and a heartfelt tribute honoring Ms. Tina Knowles.
Founded in 2020 by Aurora James, the Fifteen Percent Pledge has grown into one of the nation’s leading platforms advancing equity for Black-owned businesses. The Gala served as the anchor event of the 15th Street Block Party Weekend, a two-day cultural experience spotlighting Black founders, creatives, and community leaders.
The evening honored Tina Knowles for her extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and decades-long commitment to uplifting Black communities. Introduced by Kelly Rowland, Knowles received a standing ovation as she accepted the honor, delivering remarks that resonated deeply with the entrepreneurial spirit in the room. She spoke candidly about the realities of building a business—wearing many hats, persevering through challenges, and finding joy in collective support and shared success.
The Gala drew an influential mix of leaders, creatives, and changemakers, including Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Kimora Lee Simmons, Law Roach, Winnie Harlow, Jay Shetty, Jeannie Mai, Rachel Zoe, and Sloane Stephens, among many others. The seated dinner unfolded with powerful remarks, video tributes, and reflections on the organization’s growing impact, including special moments from Aurora James and Fifteen Percent Pledge Chair Emma Grede.
James reflected on the organization’s mission and measurable progress, noting that since its launch, the Fifteen Percent Pledge has helped place more than 950 Black-owned brands on major retail shelves and distributed over $1 million in grants in the past year alone. Her remarks underscored the organization’s commitment to supporting artists, designers, and dreamers as essential contributors to culture and economic vitality.
Grede emphasized that the weekend was not only about progress, but also about centering Black joy and building long-term opportunity. She highlighted the organization’s focus on closing the racial wealth gap through access to capital, education, and strategic partnerships—particularly for Black women founders who make up the majority of the Pledge’s community.
Gala and Weekend Highlights included:
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A $100,000 grant awarded to MAED Beauty
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Honoring Ms. Tina Knowles for lifelong advocacy and mentorship
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Reflections from Aurora James and Emma Grede on impact and growth
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The presentation of the Sephora Beauty Award
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A vibrant gathering of cultural, fashion, business, and philanthropic leaders
The Gala flowed seamlessly into the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s 15th Street Block Party Weekend, held February 7–8 on the Paramount Studios backlot. The immersive experience featured more than 120 Black-owned vendors, live performances, founder-led panels, book signings, and interactive activations. Attendees explored a dynamic marketplace, enjoyed food from celebrated Black-owned eateries, and participated in conversations designed to educate, inspire, and connect.
Since its founding, the Fifteen Percent Pledge has evolved from a single call to action into a national engine for economic equity. In 2025 alone, the organization:
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Disbursed nearly $1 million in grants
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Expanded its founder community to more than 10,000 entrepreneurs
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Increased grant and education programming year over year
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Launched Ivy League and AI-focused education initiatives for Black founders
The 2026 Gala and Block Party Weekend affirmed the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s role as a catalyst for meaningful, measurable change—where philanthropy meets culture, and community investment fuels the future of Black entrepreneurship.
Report by PPLM News Staff | Featured News of the Week for Goddess Couture News
(Photo Credit: Hunter Abrams for Fifteen Percent Pledge)
