What began as a single call to action in 2020 has evolved into one of the most influential economic equity movements in modern retail. On Saturday night, the Fifteen Percent Pledge returned with its annual fundraising gala at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles—marking not just another glamorous evening, but a powerful checkpoint in a long-term strategy to build sustainable infrastructure for Black-owned businesses.
Founded by designer and activist Aurora James, the Fifteen Percent Pledge launched amid a national reckoning with racial inequity, urging major retailers to commit at least 15 percent of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. Six years later, the organization has moved well beyond awareness—quietly and consistently transforming access, opportunity, and capital for thousands of founders nationwide.
Hosted by journalist and CNN anchor Abby Phillip, the evening brought together a dynamic mix of leaders, creatives, and changemakers including Chloe Bailey, Chriselle Lim, Dree Hemingway, Jay Shetty, Jeannie Mai, Karen Pittman, Kimora Lee Simmons, Law Roach, Meghan Duchess of Sussex, Rachel Zoe, Sloane Stephens, Winnie Harlow, and many more. But the focus of the night was unmistakably clear — progress. “Since I launched the Fifteen Percent Pledge in 2020, we’ve helped place more than 950 Black-owned brands on the shelves of major retailers across the country,” James shared from the stage. “Last year alone, we were able to distribute over $1 million in grants. I’ve done this work because I want to support artists, designers, and dreamers—because society is nothing without them.”
Emma Grede, Tina Knowles, and Kelly Rowland pose at the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala Photo credit: Hunter Abrams for Fifteen Percent Pledge
Those numbers tell a larger story. In 2025 alone, the organization expanded its entrepreneur community to more than 10,000 founders, nearly doubled its grant and education programming year over year, and launched one of the first AI education initiatives specifically designed for Black founders, ensuring they are not just participants in emerging technology, but leaders within it. The gala also honored Ms. Tina Knowles for her extraordinary leadership, advocacy, and lifelong commitment to uplifting Black communities and creatives. Introduced by Kelly Rowland, Knowles received a standing ovation that felt as much like gratitude as it did recognition. “It is such a blessing to be in the company of so many young and smart Black entrepreneurs and business owners,” Knowles said during her acceptance remarks. “The real joy comes from seeing us cheering each other on—supporting, networking, sharing resources. This work takes tenacity. One day you’re the CEO, the next day you’re the delivery person. It takes a very special kind of person to keep going.” Knowles’ honor was emblematic of the organization’s ethos: legacy matters—but only if it creates pathways forward.
That forward motion was further underscored by Fifteen Percent Pledge Chair Emma Grede, who emphasized the importance of building systems that outlast moments. “At a time when progress can feel hard-won, this year’s Gala and Block Party Weekend is about centering Black joy, honoring our community, and carrying forward a real commitment to closing the racial wealth gap,” Grede said. “Our work has created long-term opportunity for thousands of Black founders—most of whom are women.”
Emma Grede and Aurora James stun on the red carpet of the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala Photo Credit: BFA for Fifteen Percent Pledge
The gala served as the anchor event for the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s 15th Street Block Party Weekend, a two-day cultural celebration held February 7 and 8 on the Paramount Studios backlot. More than a festival, the Block Party brought the organization’s mission to life—connecting commerce, culture, and community in real time. Attendees explored a marketplace featuring over 120 Black-owned brands, alongside live performances, food vendors, immersive activations, and founder-led conversations. From beauty panels featuring industry leaders like Shani Darden and Janell Stephens to exclusive book signings with Aurora James, Ms. Tina Knowles, and artist Amy Sherald, the weekend emphasized access—not just exposure.
Participating brands included Brother Vellies, Brandon Blackwood, Danessa Myricks, The Doux, Cécred x Ulta, Sergio Hudson, and Bigface by Jimmy Butler, reinforcing the organization’s growing influence across fashion, beauty, food, and lifestyle sectors. Perhaps most notably, the Fifteen Percent Pledge used the weekend to spotlight upcoming initiatives focused on mentorship, funding pipelines, and strategic retail partnerships—signaling a future rooted in sustainability rather than symbolism.
In an era where corporate commitments to equity often waver under shifting political and economic pressures, the Fifteen Percent Pledge stands as a reminder that progress requires structure. Capital. Education. Access. And consistency.
The gala was not just a celebration of how far the organization has come but a declaration of where it’s going next. From shelf space to boardrooms, from grants to AI classrooms, the Fifteen Percent Pledge has transformed a promise into power and continues to prove that when Black founders are given real tools, the impact is exponential. And for the thousands of entrepreneurs whose businesses now exist because of that original call to action, the movement’s message remains clear — this was never about a moment. It was about building something that lasts.
