APNET Gala & Fundraiser 2026: Celebrating Excellence, Empowering Futures
About this Event
Join us for an evening celebrating 16 years of impact, leadership, service, and community.
The 2026 APNET Gala & Fundraiser will bring together professionals, entrepreneurs, students, community leaders, partners, and supporters for an evening of celebration, connection, and giving.
This year, we are highlighting not only what APNET has accomplished, but also what it takes to sustain and grow our work.
Address: DePaul Cristo Rey High School
3440 Central Parkway Cincinnati OH 45225
Dress Code: Business Professional, Formal, African, or International Attire
Gala Highlights
- Cocktail Reception and Networking
- Keynote Speaker
- APNET Impact Presentation
- Scholarship and Community Awards
- African Fashion Showcase
- Cultural Performances and Entertainment
- African Marketplace
- Silent Auction
- African Inspired Cuisine
- Signature Cocktails
Sponsorship
Corporate and community sponsorship opportunities are available.
Presenting Sponsor: $15,000
Empowering Futures Sponsor: $10,000
Impact Sponsor: $5,000
Community Sponsor: $2,500
Table Sponsor: $1,000
Contact for sponsorship details.
APNET Impact
For 16 years, APNET has created opportunities that connect people, develop future leaders, support entrepreneurs, and strengthen our community.
Recent highlights include:
- Nearly 10,000 attendees at AfriFest 2026
- More than 67 vendors, businesses, artisans, and performers participating in AfriFest
- More than 60 students participating in APNET Summer Programs, representing over 25 elementary and high schools
- More than 40 volunteers supporting the APNET Summer Youth Program
- 12 scholarships awarded to high school and college students at the 2025 Gala
- Youth programming focused on leadership, financial literacy, career readiness, wellness, entrepreneurship, and personal development
- Professional networking and development opportunities for African and diaspora professionals
- Entrepreneurship and small business support that creates greater visibility and connections for local businesses
These numbers represent more than participation. They reflect APNET’s growing role in connecting communities, investing in young people, creating opportunities, and strengthening Greater Cincinnati.
Why We Are Fundraising
Funds raised from the Gala will support:
- Scholarships and Education
- Youth Development
- Entrepreneurship and Professional Development
- Culture and Community Programs
- APNET Capacity and Sustainability
As APNET grows, we need additional human and financial resources to sustain our work. Capacity support will help fund administrative and program staff, fundraising, communications, financial management, technology, program coordination, and organizational systems. Your support helps fund both the programs our community experiences and the people and infrastructure needed to make those programs possible.
Final Call to Action
Celebrate the impact. Invest in the future.
Purchase your ticket, sponsor a table, make a donation, or become an APNET partner.
Celebrating Excellence. Empowering Futures. Building Capacity for Lasting Impact.
Agenda
🕑: 05:00 PM - 09:30 PM
Program Highlights
Info: 5:00 PM Registration, Cocktail Reception, Networking, African Marketplace & Silent Auction
6:00 PM Welcome & Opening Remarks
6:15 PM Dinner Service & Live Entertainment
6:45 PM APNET Impact Presentation
7:00 PM High School & College Scholarship Awards
7:20 PM Panel Discussion: Celebrating Excellence, Empowering Futures
7:50 PM APNET Community Awards Presentation
8:10 PM Fundraising Appeal & Capacity and Sustainability Support
8:30 PM Fashion Showcase, Cultural Performances & Celebration
9:15 PM Closing Remarks
9:30 PM Program Concludes
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 1000.00
