On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the HBCU/Greek & Small Business Mixer ignited Montgomery’s Vanguard Social House with an electric celebration where culture, connection and innovation intersected.
A collaborative effort led by The Alabama Collective and SBOSS Montgomery, the mixer united more than 150 HBCU alumni and students, Divine Nine members, small business owners/leaders, tech professionals and community stakeholders under one roof to celebrate the powerful combination of heritage and innovation.
“This event wasn’t just a mixer—it was a movement,” said Charisse Stokes, Executive Director of The Alabama Collective. “We created space for Black entrepreneurs, students, and professionals to connect authentically, amplify their voices, and explore new pathways in tech and business.”
From the moment the doors opened, guests were welcomed with vibrant music and a warm atmosphere fueled by shared pride and purpose. Draped in their HBCU apparel and Greek letters, attendees represented their roots and built meaningful connections.
Throughout the evening, guests learned more about local small business ventures, swapped ideas with fellow entrepreneurs, and expanded their professional networks.
Although the event was a night to remember, its purpose cannot be understated. Black-led ventures have the potential to transform Alabama’s economic landscape and events like this are critical to creating access, opportunity, and lasting partnerships.
With that in mind, we’re asking you to join our movement by serving as a mentor, volunteering or partnering with us to provide sponsorships and/or internships to those participating in programs offered by The Alabama Collective. With your help, we can inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, critical thinkers and changemakers.
“We’re planting seeds for future collaborations, mentorships, and investments,” Stokes said. “The connections made here will ripple far beyond tonight.”
The Alabama Collective team is already looking ahead to future events that will offer even more ways for professionals, creatives, technical thinkers and founders to engage.
Stay connected with The Alabama Collective for more events, programs, and initiatives designed to empower Alabama’s growing ecosystem of HBCU entrepreneurs and tech leaders. Visit us at thealabamacollective.com.
On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the HBCU/Greek & Small Business Mixer ignited Montgomery’s Vanguard Social House with an electric celebration where culture, connection and innovation intersected.
A collaborative effort led by The Alabama Collective and SBOSS Montgomery, the mixer united more than 150 HBCU alumni and students, Divine Nine members, small business owners/leaders, tech professionals and community stakeholders under one roof to celebrate the powerful combination of heritage and innovation.
“This event wasn’t just a mixer—it was a movement,” said Charisse Stokes, Executive Director of The Alabama Collective. “We created space for Black entrepreneurs, students, and professionals to connect authentically, amplify their voices, and explore new pathways in tech and business.”
From the moment the doors opened, guests were welcomed with vibrant music and a warm atmosphere fueled by shared pride and purpose. Draped in their HBCU apparel and Greek letters, attendees represented their roots and built meaningful connections.
Throughout the evening, guests learned more about local small business ventures, swapped ideas with fellow entrepreneurs, and expanded their professional networks.
Although the event was a night to remember, its purpose cannot be understated. Black-led ventures have the potential to transform Alabama’s economic landscape and events like this are critical to creating access, opportunity, and lasting partnerships.
With that in mind, we’re asking you to join our movement by serving as a mentor, volunteering or partnering with us to provide sponsorships and/or internships to those participating in programs offered by The Alabama Collective. With your help, we can inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, critical thinkers and changemakers.
“We’re planting seeds for future collaborations, mentorships, and investments,” Stokes said. “The connections made here will ripple far beyond tonight.”
The Alabama Collective team is already looking ahead to future events that will offer even more ways for professionals, creatives, technical thinkers and founders to engage.
Stay connected with The Alabama Collective for more events, programs, and initiatives designed to empower Alabama’s growing ecosystem of HBCU entrepreneurs and tech leaders. Visit us at thealabamacollective.com.
The Alabama Collective (TAC) is building a more inclusive, tech-driven economy across Alabama. Guided by the principles of Expose, Educate, Engage, and Empower, TAC connects talent, training, and opportunity—helping students, founders, and communities transform ideas into impact.
