Invest Fest 2025: A Transformative Gathering of Visionaries and Innovators

Invest Fest 2025, held from August 22 to August 24 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, emerged as a landmark event, drawing over 25,000 attendees from across the globe. This year's festival was a convergence of entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and cultural empowerment, featuring an unparalleled lineup of speakers and performers. Organized by Earn Your Leisure, the event spanned three days, offering attendees a blend of insightful panels, networking opportunities, and live entertainment. From August 22 to August 24, the festival provided a platform for individuals to engage with thought leaders and industry pioneers. The success of the event underscored the growing demand for accessible financial education and community-driven initiatives.

A Stellar Lineup of Speakers and Thought Leaders

The festival's lineup boasted an impressive array of speakers, including Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jack Dorsey, Steve Harvey, Issa Rae, and Charlamagne Tha God. These luminaries shared their journeys, insights, and strategies on topics ranging from wealth-building and entrepreneurship to personal development. The full line up was The event boasts an impressive lineup of influential figures from various fields, each contributing their expertise and vision to the gathering. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a legendary NBA icon and successful entrepreneur, will share insights from his journey of transforming athletic success into business acumen. Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block, brings a wealth of knowledge on technology and innovation in the digital age. Steve Harvey, renowned comedian and media mogul,  offered his unique perspective on personal development and success. Issa Rae, an award-winning actress and producer, added her voice to discussions on creativity and representation in the entertainment industry. Charlamagne Tha God, a prominent radio host and media personality, engaged attendees with his candid approach to culture and social issues.

The event also featured a diverse array of entrepreneurs, activists, and thought leaders. Jaylen Brown, NBA champion and philanthropist, is known for his commitment to community empowerment through initiatives like the 7uice Foundation. Tiffany D. Cross, a seasoned journalist and podcast host, provided commentary on media and politics. Dr. Cheyenne Bryant, a psychology expert and life coach, offered  strategies for personal growth and resilience. Tabitha Brown, actress and entrepreneur, was celebrated for her positive influence and advocacy for wellness. LaRussell, an independent music pioneer, and Pinky Cole, founder of Slutty Vegan, who exemplify innovation in their respective industries. Derrick Hayes, CEO of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, showcased his success in the food industry and his new additions, while Angela Rye, CEO of IMPACT Strategies, was a leading voice in political advocacy.

Additional notable participants include Terrence J, actor and author, who was delighted to share his experiences in media and entrepreneurship. 2 Chainz, Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur, discussed the intersection of music and business. Stephen Jackson, NBA champion and social justice advocate, brought a perspective on activism and sports. John Hope Bryant, founder of Operation HOPE, and Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor and civil rights leader, addressed economic empowerment and community leadership. Dean Forbes, tech CEO and social mobility advocate, and Paul Judge, cybersecurity innovator, contributed insights into technology and its societal impact. Pretty Vee, comedian and media mogul, and 19 Keys, thought leader and futurist, round out the lineup with their dynamic approache to culture and innovation. Their presence underscored the festival's commitment to providing attendees with valuable knowledge and inspiration. Rashad Bilal, Troy Millings, Matt Garland, and Michael J. MacDonald, facilitated discussions on various aspects of financial empowerment. Their collective expertise enriched the festival's programming, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of financial literacy.

Engaging Panels and Workshops

Invest Fest 2025 offered a comprehensive schedule of panels and workshops tailored to equip attendees with practical skills and knowledge. Sessions covered a wide range of subjects, including "Money, Power, Purpose: Building Black Wealth That Lasts," "Thematic Investing: Investing in Disruptive Tech," and "Legacy & Wealth: Financial and Estate Planning Essentials." These discussions provided actionable insights into areas such as cryptocurrency, real estate, insurance, and estate planning. Notably, the "What’s Driving Markets: AI, Crypto, and Geopolitics in 2025" panel, presented by BlackRock, delved into the intersection of technology and global markets. These sessions empowered attendees to make informed financial decisions and plan for long-term prosperity.

Exclusive VIP Experiences

For those seeking a more intimate experience, Invest Fest 2025 offered exclusive VIP events. VIP attendees enjoyed curated experiences, including the official Miss Business Experience kick-off party at Retreat and the VIP Night at Guardian Works. These events featured red carpet arrivals, live performances by artists like Keyshia Cole, and engaging discussions led by figures such as Dr. Cheyenne Bryant and Terrence J. The festival also hosted the "Power Kickoff" presented by Brand South Africa, celebrating global collaborations and cultural exchange. The VIP Night, held on August 22 at Guardian Works, provided attendees with opportunities to network with speakers and fellow entrepreneurs in a relaxed setting. The evening featured curated sessions such as "Unbreakable: The Psychology of Self-Worth & Success," "Branding, Business & Breaking Barriers," and "Black Out Live," which included a comedy show and musical performance by Keyshia Cole. These events allowed for deeper connections and discussions among like-minded individuals. The VIP experiences enhanced the overall festival atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Dynamic Vendor Marketplace

The festival's Vendor Marketplace, presented by Miss Business, showcased over 400 small businesses, offering a diverse array of products and services. This vibrant marketplace served as a hub for entrepreneurs to display their innovations and connect with potential customers and partners. Vendors like Coach Debs from Stock Pickers Academy came all the way from the UK to connect. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of offerings, from tech solutions to lifestyle products, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit that Invest Fest aims to foster. The marketplace also featured live demonstrations and interactive displays, engaging attendees in hands-on experiences. This initiative highlighted the festival's commitment to supporting small businesses and promoting economic growth within the community.

Live Performances and Entertainment

Invest Fest 2025 seamlessly blended education with entertainment, featuring live performances that energized the crowd. The event's entertainment lineup included musical acts and a step show presented by Stomp Wars, adding a dynamic cultural element to the festival. These performances not only provided entertainment but also highlighted the rich cultural tapestry that Invest Fest celebrates. The integration of music, dance, and comedy created an engaging atmosphere, enhancing the overall attendee experience. These elements underscored the festival's holistic approach to financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of cultural expression in personal development.

Focus on Financial Literacy and

Empowerment

A core mission of Invest Fest is to promote financial literacy and empowerment, particularly within underserved communities. Panels and workshops emphasized the importance of foundational financial knowledge, long-term investing, diversification, and responsible use of equity. Speakers like Cedric Nash, Chris Sain, and Austin Haynes shared strategies to navigate the evolving financial landscape, including insights into cryptocurrency and wealth-building techniques. These sessions equipped attendees with the tools and knowledge to take control of their financial futures. The festival's emphasis on financial education aimed to bridge the gap in financial literacy and empower individuals to achieve economic independence.

Networking Opportunities

The festival provided numerous networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with industry leaders, fellow entrepreneurs, and potential collaborators. From structured VIP events to informal meetups in the Vendor Marketplace, Invest Fest facilitated meaningful interactions that extended beyond the event itself. These connections are poised to foster future collaborations and ventures, contributing to the ongoing growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The networking sessions also included mentorship opportunities, where experienced professionals offered guidance to emerging entrepreneurs. These interactions underscored the festival's role in building a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Community Impact and Outreach

Invest Fest 2025 emphasized community impact through initiatives like the Bevel Grant and Operation Hope Giveaway, aimed at supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and underserved communities. These programs reflect the festival's commitment to creating lasting change and providing resources to those striving to make a difference. By focusing on community outreach, Invest Fest continues to align its mission with the broader goal of economic empowerment. The Bevel Grant, in particular, provided financial support to local businesses, enabling them to expand and create jobs within their communities. These initiatives demonstrated the festival's dedication to fostering sustainable economic development.

Looking Ahead to Invest Fest 2026

Building on the success of this year's event, plans are already underway for Invest Fest 2026. The festival aims to expand its reach and impact, continuing to serve as a premier platform for financial education, entrepreneurship, and cultural celebration. With each iteration, Invest Fest strengthens its position as a transformative force in the landscape of wealth-building and empowerment. Attendees can look forward to even more dynamic programming and opportunities in the coming years. The organizers are committed to evolving the festival to meet the changing needs of the community and continue inspiring individuals on their financial journeys.