Press Release: MelaninCON Announces 2026 Theme E.C.H.O: Empower Communities and Harness Opportunities
[Washington, DC] — [October 17th,2025] — After two groundbreaking years, MelaninCON is entering a bold new chapter with its 2026 theme, ECHO: Empowering Communities and Harnessing Opportunities. The annual gathering for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, professionals, and changemakers is evolving into a year-round movement designed to provide tangible resources and actionable tools that empower communities to grow and succeed.
“MelaninCON has always been about celebrating Black excellence, but in 2026 we are taking it further,” said Donovan Woodberry, founder of MelaninCON. “We are moving beyond inspiration to give our community real, practical tools they can apply in their businesses, careers, and communities. At the same time, we are navigating new challenges in a shifting political landscape and remain committed to keeping all of our programs affordable and impactful for everyone.”
A Three-Tier Model for Maximum Impact
ECHO serves as the mission core, amplifying Black excellence through meaningful connections, community building, and access to resources.
ECHO Amplified offers monthly virtual workshops that are free and accessible to all. Workshops will cover funding, branding, tech skills, mental wellness, leadership development, and understanding the political landscape. With 2026 being an election year, ECHO Amplified also empowers attendees to make informed decisions that impact their communities and futures.
ECHO Pulse brings the movement into real life with six in-person events in major cities. Each event will include a panel with experts, a networking happy hour, and a cash giveaway funded by sponsors and ticket sales to directly support local entrepreneurs and creatives. These events provide attendees with opportunities to take lessons from virtual workshops and turn them into real-world action.
The cities announced are Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Nashville, Louisville, Atlanta, and Houston.
All MelaninCON 2026 initiatives reflect the organization’s six guiding pillars: Culture, Community, Commitment, Commerce, Luxury, and Empowerment.
Looking ahead, MelaninCON will return in 2027 with an even larger in-person summit, expanding its reach, deepening community impact, and creating more opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and changemakers to connect, learn, and thrive while remaining accessible and meaningful to the communities it serves.
About MelaninCON
MelaninCON is the premier gathering for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, professionals, and changemakers. Since its debut in 2023, MelaninCON has brought together leaders from across the country for events filled with culture, connection, community, and growth. Through panels, workshops, curated socials, and networking opportunities, MelaninCON continues to expand its reach and amplify Black brilliance.
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