U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. and TikTok Host Annual BLACKprint Policy Brunch Spotlighting the Economic Power of Black Creators and Cultural Architects

[Washington, D.C.] October 23, 2025 – The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC), in partnership with TikTok, proudly hosted the 2025 BLACKprint Policy Brunch during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) 54th Annual Legislative Conference on Thursday, September 25th at Signal House in Washington, D.C.

This year’s theme, “From Influence to Infrastructure: Building the Black Creator Economy,” celebrated the transformative impact of Black creators as cultural architects, economic drivers, and emerging entrepreneurs. As the creator economy rapidly evolves, the event emphasized the urgent need for Black creators to not only shape culture but also own, monetize, and scale within it.

The annual brunch welcomed over 200 guests, including members of Congress, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and digital innovators, offering an intimate environment for connection, collaboration, and policy dialogue.

Distinguished Speakers & Guests Included:

Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37)
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10)
Congressman Jonathan Jackson (IL-1)
Congressman Herb Conaway, M.D. (NJ-03)
Donald Cravins Jr., Interim CEO, National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)
Ed Gordon, Award-winning Journalist & CEO, Ed Gordon Media

The featured panel discussion, moderated by Talisha Bekavac, Executive Vice President of USBC, explored the intersection of policy, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Panelists included Eni Popoola (@enigivensunday), a TikTok creator and digital storyteller, and Shaina Rainford, Founder & CEO of Bask & Lather Co. Together, they discussed the challenges and opportunities within the creator economy, the importance of equitable policies and protections for creators, and how creators are now one of the fastest-growing segments of new business owners in the U.S.

Additional remarks were provided by L’Allegro Smith, U.S. Public Policy at TikTok, and Alexandra Givan, Lead, Global Creator Community Programs at TikTok. Charles O’Neal, Chairman of the USBC Board of Directors, and Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of USBC, also addressed attendees with inspiring calls to action.

“The creator economy represents one of the most exciting frontiers for Black entrepreneurship,” said Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “Our mission at USBC is to ensure that Black creators are not just participating in this economy—but leading it, owning their intellectual property, and building infrastructure that sustains generational wealth. Events like the BLACKprint Policy Brunch are where influence meets advocacy and innovation meets opportunity.”

Through this annual event, USBC reinforces its BLACKprint vision and unwavering mission to strengthen the American economy by expanding Black business ownership. The organization advocates for inclusion in emerging industries while ensuring that Black chambers and small business owners have equitable access to the resources, education, and capital necessary to grow and thrive.