Highlights from the Indigenous Marketplace

Posted on April 30, 2024

We are still buzzing with excitement from last Saturday’s Indigenous gala—the FIRST-ever big fundraiser event for the Indigenous marketplace organization—and what a resounding success it was! A heartfelt THANK YOU to every one of you who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and those who attended, making it an unforgettable evening. A special shoutout goes to Annette Jackson, whose dedication to coordinating the silent auction and much more was instrumental in the gala’s success. Our Board members also deserve a huge round of applause for their unwavering commitment and countless hours devoted to making this event a reality. And guess what? We’re already eagerly anticipating next year’s gala!

If you missed out on the gala or want to continue supporting their cause, fear not! Some fantastic items from the Silent Auction are still up for grabs until May 15th.

Head over to this link to place your bids and secure your favorite items.

Now, onto the BIG NEWS they unveiled at the gala—a generous anonymous donor has gifted them a building! While they are not quite ready to divulge the address and all the intricate details just yet, rest assured, more information will be forthcoming soon.

Here are the facts: The building requires substantial renovations—it needs to be gutted, rewired, and undergo numerous other improvements before it can be deemed safe for occupancy or hosting events. Realistically, this process will take a minimum of a year, if not longer.

As they navigate this new terrain, they. ask for your patience and understanding. They are in the process of planning an event to ceremonially bless the land, and throughout the summer, there may be outdoor events open to the public while we work on the building’s interior.

Once the renovations are complete, the space will not only serve as the organization’s headquarters but potentially as a retail space and venue for various events. However, these plans will unfold gradually over time.

So, what does this monumental development mean for the community? It means that the organization will finally have a place to call home—a physical address where the community can find the Indigenous Marketplace. This is a significant milestone that wouldn’t have been possible without your unwavering support and dedication. Stay tuned for more updates as they embark on this exciting journey together.

And before we sign off, a quick reminder: If you’re an approved Indigenous/Black artist or entrepreneur, don’t forget to complete the Indigenous Marketplace Application to participate in the upcoming summer 2024 Indigenous Marketplace events. Due to high demand, vendors may not be confirmed for all dates.

Please fill out the Summer Sign-Up Form here to secure your spot.

Once again, THANK YOU to our incredible community for your continued support, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to their mission. Together, we’re making a tangible difference in the lives of Indigenous and Black artists and entrepreneurs. Here’s to many more milestones and moments of celebration ahead!

Indigenous gala