February is Black History Month, and we are giving visibility to the people and organizations creating change in our communities. This is not a time for silence, but a time for letting our collective voices be heard and celebrated.
This is YOUR moment to create something special. The Blue Blackprint Mixer honors the legacy of those who paved the way while creating an inclusive space for Black professionals and community members to connect, collaborate, and continue the journey toward equity and excellence. We're creating a space and plan where dreamers become doers, where connections spark revolutions.
Whether you're scaling a brand, seeking community or community partners, launching a movement, or redefining the game, this is YOUR opportunity to connect, create, and grow alongside the best in business.
📅 When & Where
Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
Location: Connect 2 Rise Inc, 2594 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Can't make the full event? Flexible arrival times available - but don't miss the power hours from 7-8:30 PM!
🎟️ General Admission: $50.00
🎟️ Free Ticket Option: For Pasadena/Altadena Residents Impacted By Fire
🎟️ 6 Vendor Tables Available: If you like to participate as a vendor to showcase business, it is only $100.00. Includes table, chairs, and 2 tickets for you and a guest.
(Includes refreshments, lite bites, and networking/business card exchange)
Despite all the tailwinds below, we still rise....
Black Entrepreneurs
- Black Entrepreneurs are building businesses at a record pace, yet many face challenges in funding and access to networks.
Black Maternal Health Crisis
-Black women 3-4x more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications
-Systemic racism in healthcare directly impacts survival rates
Health Disparities
-Higher rates of chronic diseases: diabetes, hypertension, heart disease
Housing Inequity
-Homeownership rate: 44% for Black families (vs. 74% for white families)
-Generational wealth blocked by discriminatory lending practices
Educational Barriers
-Limited access to advanced placement and STEM programs
-Rising cost
Workplace Inequities
-Underrepresentation in leadership positions and pay disparity
-Higher rates of workplace discrimination
“We are each other’s harvest; we are each other’s business; we are each other’s magnitude and bond.” – Gwendolyn Brooks.
Thank you for your support in helping us create meaningful connections!
Our Vision: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges. At Connect 2 Rise, our mission is to foster meaningful connections and ensure that all individuals not only have a seat at the table but also thrive in an ecosystem built for success—not just survival.
Inspired by Gwendolyn Brooks: "We are each other's harvest; we are each other's business; we are each other's magnitude and bond."
All are welcome to join this celebration of Black excellence!
Benefits Includes:
Perfect for small businesses or individuals looking to support the event while gaining visibility and connections.
All Sponsorhips will be paid to the Institute for Education, Research, and Scholarships (IFERS), our fiscal sponsor: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=TFF6WMX6KNA2G.
By attending The Black Blueprint Network Mixer, you consent to being photographed or recorded during the event. These photos and videos may be used by Connect 2 Rise Inc. for promotional and marketing purposes without additional consent or compensation. If you prefer not to appear in photos or videos, please notify event staff upon check-in.
