Sponsoring Pitch Black and the MAC Xcelerator (MAC X) means directly contributing to the success of minority-owned businesses and uplifting underserved communities. Since 2021, MAC has supported BIPOC businesses, with a proven record of transforming ideas into thriving enterprises.

Examples of Impact

Ital Vital Living, a juice shop in North Omaha owned by a mother-daughter duo with Jamaican heritage, is a standout success. After completing Pitch Black, they improved their business strategies and pitch skills, earning third place in the 2022 Pitch Black competition and winning the investor’s pick prize. Their weekly production increased from 200 to 1,000 units after acquiring a large-scale juice production machine, demonstrating their growth.They are now opening a second Omaha location and have received NE DED funding.
Xavier Jackson, founder of Local Art Plug and the 2023 Pitch Black winner, leveraged the program’s support to provide much-needed opportunities for young artists in Omaha, highlighting the role of MAC-X in filling gaps in the local business ecosystem. He went on to receive several other grants and forged partnerships through networking with chamber members. They have received NE DED funding using the business plan built through our programs.
exemplifies the impact of Pitch Black in scaling businesses. As the only Black women-owned TBI licensed healthcare agency in Nebraska specializing in care for traumatic brain injury patients, the company grew its network, refined its business plan, and generated one million dollars in revenue in 2024.

Broader Impact

In 2024 alone, 79 small businesses participated in our signature entrepreneurship programs, with 98% being BIPOC-owned. Through mentoring, financial coaching, and pitch training, over 30 businesses were launched. Pitch Black finalists received $87,000 in funding and technical assistance to help scale their businesses. The MAC Xcelerator program served 29 businesses, awarded $20,000 in seed funding, and provided 641 hours of technical assistance.

With 82% of participants completing their business plans, pitch decks, and mentorship engagements, the program’s effectiveness is clear. 81.8% of participants rated it as “Very good” or “Good,” and 100% recommended it.

Pitch Black and MAC X also engage the community. In 2024, over 600 people attended ten in-person events, including Pitch Black and the Ubuntu Mixer, raising visibility for minority entrepreneurs.

By sponsoring Pitch Black and MAC X, your organization gains unparalleled visibility while fostering success, empowerment, and cultural awareness in the Midwest. This is your chance to support local entrepreneurs and make a lasting impact on communities in need.

Sponsorship Packages