Welcome to the SEED of Success Gala
Roots To Red Carpets
Step into the magic of the SEED of Success Gala, themed Roots To Red Carpets, a Hollywood Experience celebrating 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 15, 2026
Saturday evening
From 6:00PM, Until 9:00PM
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.
Meet Our Host: Colleen Finney
Colleen Finney is the NIL Coordinator for Brand Partnerships and Education at Every True Tiger (Mizzou Athletics) and the founder of Play Her Potential, a sports initiative empowering young girls through mentorship. A former Division I and professional volleyball player, she holds a Master’s in Business from Mizzou and recently earned First Runner-Up at Miss Missouri 2026. Renowned for her authenticity and vibrant energy, Colleen is honored to host the 4th Annual "Roots to Red Carpets" Gala and celebrate the leaders driving economic growth in Mid-Missouri.
Want to Make a Bigger Impact? Elevate Your Visibility!
Looking for more ways to get involved in this year's Gala beyond a standard ticket?
We have opened up exclusive opportunities to showcase your business or personal support while enjoying a premier VIP experience:
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Program Book Recognition: Highlight your business, share a tribute, or place a congratulatory message in our printed event program distributed to all Gala guests.
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VIP Access Included: Pair your program recognition with VIP Gala Tickets, giving you preferred seating, exclusive networking access, and premium perks throughout the night.
Meet Our Musical Guest: Saxophonist Kelvin Evans
Get ready for an unforgettable soundtrack to our evening! Bringing over 20 years of mastery to the stage, Saxophonist Kelvin Evans is a dynamic, highly influential music artist known for thrilling audiences across every genre.
A native of Alabama, Kelvin credits his humble upbringing with instilling the deep work ethic and respect for others that define his career today. Having performed alongside numerous local and national recording acts, his signature versatility and soulful sound will set the perfect mood as we celebrate Mid-Missouri's entrepreneurs on the red carpet.
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
Corporate Sponsors
