Welcome to the SEED of Success Gala
The Grand Masquerade
Step into the magic of the SEED of Success Gala, themed The Grand Masquerade! Celebrate the achievements of minority and women-owned businesses and honor the invaluable contributions of local entrepreneurs. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of exquisite dining, captivating music, and an exciting auction. Let’s unite and support our local minority and women business enterprises in Columbia and Mid-Missouri.
Join us for a night of impact
The SEED of Success Gala isn’t just an event—it’s a movement dedicated to fostering growth and creating opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses. Your attendance and contributions empower us to provide essential grants, workshops, and resources that drive local entrepreneurship and economic development. Get ready for the Big Night!
Where
The Atrium on Tenth
22 N 10th St, Columbia, MO 65201
When
August 16, 2025
Saturday evening
From 6:00PM, Until 9:00PM
Experience the Magic of Bell Darris
Get ready for an unforgettable night at the SEED of Success Gala: The Grand Masquerade with featured performer Bell Darris—an acclaimed violinist, entrepreneur, author, and curator.
From headlining sold-out shows at City Winery to sharing stages with Anthony Hamilton, Jagged Edge, and Tamela Mann, Bell’s dynamic performances have wowed audiences across the country.
A proud St. Louis native, she’s also the founder of The CREATE Camp, a youth arts and entrepreneurship program recognized by the City of St. Louis for its impact.
Bell’s performance will bring talent, purpose, and passion to this year’s Gala—you won’t want to miss it!
Become a Sponsor at the SEED of Success Gala
Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance and empowerment by becoming a table sponsor at the SEED of Success Gala. As a table sponsor, you and your guests will enjoy premium seating, prominent recognition in our event program, and the chance to make a real difference for minority and women-owned businesses. Your sponsorship directly funds essential resources and SEED Grants, creating lasting impact in our community. Reserve your table today and be a part of this inspiring celebration!
Gala Recap – The Grand Masquerade
Last year’s event was truly unforgettable, as we celebrated the incredible achievements of our community. We proudly honored the MBE of the Year Awardee and the WBE of the Year Awardee—each a beacon of innovation, resilience, and community impact. We also recognized our Corporate Ally of the Year, whose support has been pivotal in driving our mission forward.
Relive these inspiring moments and witness the energy that made the event so special by visiting our photo gallery.
Columbia College
Congratulations to Columbia College on being named our Corporate Ally of the Year! Partnering with them on the annual Black Business Expo has been nothing short of amazing. Together, we are creating opportunities that uplift local entrepreneurs and foster inclusive growth. The impact of their commitment will ripple through our community for generations to come.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Presenting Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Table Sponsors
Corporate Sponsors
What to Expect
Join us in celebrating and supporting programs that transform lives and create lasting impact!
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Exquisite Dining: Savor a gourmet dining experience with a specially curated menu designed to delight your palate.
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Captivating Music: Enjoy live performances that will set the perfect ambiance for an evening of celebration and networking.
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Live Auction: Participate in our exciting live auction, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting our SEED Grant Fund and Workshops, dedicated to supporting minority and women-owned businesses.
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Awards Ceremony: Celebrate the achievements and progress of local minority and women-owned businesses, including some of our past SEED Grant Awardees.
