The Official CIAA Kick-Off Reception marks a proud moment as the City of Baltimore and Bowie State University roll out the red carpet to welcome the CIAA. This exclusive gathering brings together CIAA stakeholders, civic leaders, and valued partners to celebrate the continued partnership between the CIAA and the City of Baltimore.

The evening will highlight our sponsors’ commitment to Baltimore through curated activations, special performances, and a showcase of the city’s diverse culinary excellence. As one of Baltimore’s most significant hospitality events, this reception sets the tone for an unforgettable week of celebration, culture, and community.

Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 

Time: 8:00 pm - 12:00 am 

Location: Rita Rossi Colwell Center, 701 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Business/Cocktail Attire

Parking: Pier V Parking Garage, 711 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Welcome to the 2026 Board of Directors Reception, an exclusive, invitation-only gathering bringing together distinguished stakeholders, dignitaries, and local leaders, including some of the region’s most influential voices.

Presidents will be formally welcomed by CIAA Leadership, representatives from Bowie State University, CIAA EVENTS 2026, and esteemed CIM alumni. Guests will enjoy an elegant introduction to Baltimore’s renowned culinary offerings, vibrant music, and unmistakable local charm.

Reserved for our top-tier donors, this exceptional evening offers a rare opportunity for Local Contributors to engage directly with our presidents in a refined and intimate setting, fostering meaningful connections and celebrating shared leadership and vision.

Date: Monday, February 23, 2026 

Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM 

Location: Ivy Hotel, 205 E Biddle St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Business/Cocktail Attire  

Parking: Valet 

The Gametime Reception marks the official opening of CIM Tournament Week with an exclusive “soft welcome” hosted in the heart of Baltimore. This distinguished gathering will welcome key regional stakeholders, dignitaries, and local leaders as they greet members of CIAA Leadership, representatives from Bowie State University, and participants of CIAA EVENTS 2026.

Designed as an elegant prelude to the week ahead, the Gametime Reception offers guests an early introduction to the exceptional experiences to come—celebrating the rich culinary offerings, vibrant music, and unmistakable charm that define Baltimore.

Date: Monday, February 23, 2026 

Time: 9:00PM - 12:00AM

Location: TBD 

Dress Code: Business/Cocktail Attire  

The Health and Mental Wellness Forum is a dynamic series of panel discussions focused on mental health and health disparities within the African American community. Featuring insights from respected local athletes and medical professionals, the forum brings together lived experience and clinical expertise to foster meaningful dialogue.

These discussions will explore a range of critical topics impacting both student-athletes and the broader community, including mental health awareness, cancer prevention, nutrition, diabetes, and overall wellness.

Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026 

Time: 10:00AM - 2:00PM 

Location: Rita Rossi Colwell Center, 701 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Casual  

Parking: Pier V Parking Garage, 711 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Tech Summit House has become a signature experience of CIAA Tournament Week, attracting some of the brightest minds in technology from across the African American community. Through curated panel discussions, the Summit fosters meaningful conversations around ecosystem growth, career pathways, digital equity, and emerging innovations shaping the future.

Past editions have featured dynamic exhibitions from industry leaders such as Google and Dell, alongside showcases from innovative local and emerging tech companies. Bringing together technologists, creatives, and visionaries, Tech Summit House celebrates the intersection of technology, music, and culture while amplifying the voices driving progress and innovation.

Date: Friday, February 27, 2026 

Time: 10:00AM - 5:30PM 

Location: Rita Rossi Colwell Center, 701 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Business Casual  

Parking: Pier V Parking Garage, 711 E. Pratt St, Baltimore, MD

The Money Moves Summit is a transformative experience designed to empower small businesses with the knowledge, strategies, and practical tools needed to achieve sustainable growth in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

Featuring key business leaders, policymakers, and seasoned entrepreneurs, the Summit delivers actionable insights while fostering meaningful dialogue around the issues most critical to our business community. In collaboration with corporate partners, local business leaders, and real estate stakeholders, panel discussions will spotlight the breadth of business and economic opportunities within the Baltimore market—equipping entrepreneurs with the resources and guidance necessary to thrive and scale successfully.

Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026 

Time: 9:00AM - 3:00PM 

Location: Rita Rossi Colwell Center, 701 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Business Casual

Parking: Pier V Parking Garage, 711 E Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Official CIAA Kick-Off Reception marks a proud moment as the City of Baltimore and Bowie State University roll out the red carpet to welcome the CIAA. This exclusive gathering brings together CIAA stakeholders, civic leaders, and valued partners to celebrate the continued partnership between the CIAA and the City of Baltimore.

The evening will highlight our sponsors’ commitment to Baltimore through curated activations, special performances, and a showcase of the city’s diverse culinary excellence. As one of Baltimore’s most significant hospitality events, this reception sets the tone for an unforgettable week of celebration, culture, and community.

Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 

Time: 7:00PM -12:00AM 

Location: Rita Rossi Colwell Center, 701 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Dress Code: Business/Cocktail Attire

Parking: Pier V Parking Garage, 711 E. Pratt St, Baltimore, MD