The Black Experience 2026 by the Black Impact Collaborative

Friday, July 31st, 2026-Saturday, August 1st, 2026

The Black Experience will focus on spreading “Black Joy” and the illumination of information across the BIC Impact Areas. The Black Experience will focus on spreading “Black Joy” and the illumination of information across the Health & Wellbeing, Education, Economic Security, Elder Support, and Incarceration Support Black Impact Collaborative Impact Areas, that will ultimately elevate the experience of Black people in Greater Grand Rapids.

Some of the features of The Black Experience includes a business expo and exhibits, local and national plenary, and workshop speakers, a kick-off party, live entertainment, food and much more! The event will be hosted at the MLK Park Community Center at 900 Fuller Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506.

Friday, July 31st, 2026

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

The Black Experience will kick-off with a "House Party" themed event from 7:00-10:30pm. The ticket includes food, 1-ticket to the cash bar, and registration to The Black Experience conference on Saturday. Grab your crew and throw on your best house party inspired 'fit and enjoy a night out on the town!

Saturday, August 1st, 2026

9:30 AM-3:30 PM

The Black Experience is a conference designed to bring Black joy for families in Greater Grand Rapids. It includes a Business Expo, local and national plenary, workshop speakers, live entertainment, food and much more! The nominal entry fee of $10 for adults 18+, helps us with providing food, set-up, and planning for the day. The conference is free for students and Elders 60+.

Saturday August 1st, 2026

12:30 PM-3:30 PM

The Black Experience Business Expo features premier Black-owned businesses and more. This expo will occur during The Black Experience Conference. The vendors will be located indoors near our kids' corner, which features free activities for youth of all ages. The expo will include business of all types such as food vendors, non-profits, corporations and more!

Get access to the hundreds of people who will visit The Black Experience! To learn more about the Black Experience, visit our website BICGR.com. If you have questions, please contact us at INFO@bicgr.com or 616.888.8411.

To learn more about the Black Experience, please get in contact with us by:

Visiting our website: Black Impact Collaborative

Calling us at 616-888-8411