The Creative Collective hosted its annual CultureCon event, one of the largest communities for Black creatives, bringing together the world's greatest celebrities, hiring managers and creatives throughout different industries on Oct. 3-4.
The event took place at Brooklyn Navy Yard, bringing together over 10,000 founders, skilled professionals, artists and creatives from the tri-state area and beyond in what founder Imani Ellis said was their largest turnout to date.
The theme was Museum of Us—as an ode to preserving Black culture, stories and voices in the creative industry.
Beyond the celebrity panel appearances, the space was a breeding ground for creatives to learn more about their industry, network with other professionals and even support Black businesses on the event's Creative Business Stage. In keeping with this year's theme, the space also made room for visual artists, authors and local businesses to sell their work throughout the conference.
Brooklyn creatives could move through what the conference called "tracks," organized by industry and professional level, helping them outline their day and connect with intention.
For many guests, the highlight of the day was the event's "brain dates," small-group sessions led by industry professionals. Topics ranged from learning how to pitch and how to network to turning passion into revenue.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani made an appearance, along with other popular celebrities like Miles Canton, Michael B. Jordan, Olandria Danessa Myricks and others. This year’s programming and brand activation partners included Cricket Wireless, Lincoln, Google, HBO Max, Audible, TikTok, Camille Rose and more.
“I would hope for all of the creatives in this room to look at this city, and you see a city that loves you back,” Mamdani said during a panel discussion with Ellis.
Mamdani mentioned that many creatives he speaks to say they make it in spite of the hardships that may come with living in this city. However, he hopes that, if the goal is to sustain artistry here, the city will support those who create it.
CultureCon 2026 comes after an announcement from Mamdani's office that individual artists can now receive up to $10,000 in city-funded grants, which is double the previous amount.
Mamdani and the Department of Cultural Affairs announced the increase on Oct. 2, as the first increase in nearly 20 years. The department funds local partners in each borough, who then distribute the money to artists, collectives and small nonprofits. Brooklyn artists have until Oct. 11 to apply through the Brooklyn Arts Council.
