Out of necessity, #BLACKOUT Marketplace & Events was created to act as a conduit for Black owned businesses and consumers. Our goal is simple. We seek to be a driving force for cooperative economics for the Black community and people of color. We take pride in being able to connect the community with businesses and services that speak to our needs and our culture. 

After carefully observing the state of the Black community where we live individually and nationwide, we developed a set of principles that align with the seven principles of Kwanzaa called the Blackout Five Point Plan. The plan addresses the need for opportunities that holistically enhance self sufficiency and access to resources. We host yearly events that connect the community as a whole and provide opportunities to display our diligence by way of the gifts and talents of our community. 

The #BLACKOUT Five Point Plan

• Economic empowerment through the assembly of resources, financial education, and entrepreneurial services with an emphasis on group economics (Ujamaa).
• A holistic educational approach to wealth building, maintenance of wealth, and investing.  
• A holistic educational approach to health and physical well being focusing on diet, exercise, mental well being and access to community health services. 
• An emphasis on family and community building through fellowship, community appreciation, and familial and community counseling services (Umoja).  
• The prioritization of the development of the minds of youth through the encouragement of creativity, critical thought, ancestral knowledge, and access to educational opportunities.