ByBlack Platform Partners with DuGhood Foundation to Launch 2025 “Pop Up & Pitch” Grant Competition at 7th Annual Durag Fest in Charlotte, NC
The ByBlack Platform, powered by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC), is proud to announce its partnership with the DuGhood Foundation for the 2025 Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition, set to take place at the 5th Annual Durag Fest in Charlotte, NC on Saturday, June 21st. This dynamic collaboration marks a celebration of Black enterprise, creativity, and community, anchored in this year’s theme: The Fabric & Culture of HBCUs.
Durag Fest, an annual Juneteenth celebration, has evolved into a central hub for Black vendors, young creatives, and innovators. From a vibrant street fashion showcase to performances and marketplaces, the festival uplifts Black culture and style while spotlighting the economic and cultural contributions of Black entrepreneurs.
In alignment with the festival’s mission, the Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition will award a $1,000 grant to a standout student or recent graduate-owned business. Presented by USBC and its ByBlack Platform—the only national directory and certification exclusively for Black-owned businesses—the competition gives emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their products or services live to a panel of expert judges and a high-energy audience.
“The Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition reflects our continued commitment to building pathways of opportunity for the next generation of Black-owned enterprises,” said Alicea Gay, Vice President of External Affairs & Certification at the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “Through ByBlack Certification and our growing community, we are equipping student entrepreneurs with the tools, exposure, and funding needed to build sustainable, thriving businesses.”
The competition is powered in collaboration with the DuGhood Foundation, the exclusive 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner of Durag Fest. Proceeds from the event directly support the Foundation’s mission to empower underserved and underrepresented youth through creativity, ambition, and innovation—key drivers in the pursuit of equity.
“The partnership with USBC and the ByBlack platform is monumental for us this year,” said Lisa Michelle, Founder of Durag Fest. “In today’s climate, where HBCUs are under increasing pressure and support for Black institutions is often overlooked, initiatives like Pop Out & Pitch matter more than ever. This collaboration amplifies our commitment to investing in Black excellence and directly supports the next generation of innovators shaping arts, music, fashion, and business.”
Student entrepreneurs interested in this transformative opportunity are encouraged to apply by Wednesday, June 4, 2025. To participate, applicants must submit their entries online at www.duragfestival.com/popout.
