Black Excellence in Motion
An opening keynote on ambition and opportunity.
Connect & Progress · 2026
Black excellence.
In motion.
Find your people. Take your next step.
Thu 22 October 2026 · 4pm–8:30pmNorthside, Salford
Register your interestSponsors & partners
You belong here
Come as you are.
Move forward together.
A space for Black students, founders, creatives and professionals to connect. Every background is welcome.
Come on your own or bring a friend.
The evening
Talks. Ideas. New connections.
Explore the programmeKeynote · Spotlights · Opportunities · Networking
Black Leaders Spotlight
Four talks. Real experiences. Lessons to take forward.
Find your next step
Explore career, business and skills opportunities.
Connect with the community
Meet new people and explore the marketplace.
Leave with a plan
Choose one action to move your ambition forward.
Speakers and businesses will be announced once confirmed.
What brings you here?
Your next move.
Career
Find your next step.
Business
Bring your idea forward.
Skills
Build on what you know.
Network
Meet your next connection.
Our community
Real people.
Shared ambition.
Conversations worth showing up for.Scroll through the moments →
From idea to online
100 businesses.
100 starter websites.
Your ambition deserves a place online. Apply for a free starter website with Klarnow through the AWF community.
Apply for a free websiteApplications are reviewed. Places and delivery dates are confirmed by the team.
A simple start. A shared step forward.
- Tell us your ideaShare your business and what you need online.
- Agree your next stepWe confirm eligibility, scope and any ongoing costs.
- Build your online homeBring your content. We help bring it to life.
What’s included and how Tide fits
The offer covers a one-page starter website build using a reusable design, your supplied text and images, a contact or WhatsApp link and one revision. Domain names, hosting, ongoing maintenance, shops and custom features are outside the free build; any costs are explained before you accept.
For UK founders exploring a business account, you can use our Tide referral link ↗. Klarnow may receive a referral payment for qualifying sign-ups. Tide’s eligibility, approval and current terms apply. Opening an account does not reserve or guarantee a website. The team will explain any campaign requirements before you proceed.
Already registered with AWF? Email the team to add your website interest to your existing record.
Bring something to the room
Build with us.
Have an opportunity, a business or an idea to share? Let’s make it part of the evening.
Get involvedBefore you join us
Good to know.
When and where?
Thursday 22 October 2026, 4pm–8:30pm. Northside, Salford.
Can I come on my own?
Yes. Come alone or with friends. This is a space to meet people, share ideas and make new connections.
Is my place confirmed when I register?
Registration is an expression of interest. The team will follow up with confirmation and joining details.
What if I need access support?
Tell us what would help on the registration form. The team will follow up with you.
22 October · Northside · From 4pm