About this Event
“One who walks with the wise and successful shall be wise and successful.” - African Proverb
The Black & Brown Connect Mixer is rolling in 2026 and the first event is ready for impact. We need you to be a part of this discussion.
This event is part professional, part social, and all about creating a collaborative network in a space that is built by and for us!
Have you ever imagined buying, owning and operating a strong, cash flowing business? What if you didn’t have to build it from the ground up, but could instead step into existing, proven companies and help keep them rooted in our communities? Tsunami Lab, a program of Kalamazoo Forward Ventures, is designed to do just that. Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition is the new Black, with coaching, community, and capital partners all built in.
Join us on Thursday, March 5 at the City Centre Events (125 S. Kalamazoo Mall, suite 206) space and hear firsthand how this program is gearing up to respond to the oncoming “wave” of retiring baby boomer business owners, by equipping buyers right from our community with the tools and support they need to build our economy for generations to come. We have never had an opportunity like this, come hear how it is coming together. No gatekeeping. The whole plan on building generational wealth that will change the game and our city will be discussed.
As always, we’ll have food, drinks, and music to set the vibe as we get to know one another before diving into this topic of the season. We can’t wait to catch up with you and celebrate what’s coming in 2026.
Thanks to the new ownership at City Centre Events for welcoming the B&B Connect. This young professional (of color) is helping to change the landscape of ownership here too.
About the Black & Brown Connect
Developed with professionals and career-minded folks of color in mind, the Black & Brown Connect is a place to gain connections and build relationships right here in our community—ones you can use to build on your success in a psychologically safe space. This is a time like no other, particularly for Black and Brown folks. Perhaps you are leading a team as the only person of color. Perhaps you are looking for ways to engage in a more culturally competent and relevant space with folks who can relate to many of your experiences in the workplace. Or, perhaps you are looking to unleash your inner entrepreneur and want to start or scale your business to the next level but could use a boost in the connections department. No matter your station, this mixer is a great place to dig in and create an impact for yourself and our communities.
Special thanks to Stryker for their continued support of the Black & Brown Connect Mixer.
Please note: All ticket sales are final. Should you be unable to attend, we offer the opportunity to transfer your ticket to a fellow team member or partner organization. Please contact a member of our team to transfer your ticket, if necessary. Eventbrite charges a nominal convenience fee for online purchases.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Catalyst Center, 180 E Water Street, Kalamazoo, United States
USD 5.00











