Pitch Black Showcase
*Arts for All pricing is available through the Box Office at 503-445-3700.
Pitch Black Showcase returns to Portland for a one-night celebration of Black ideas and brilliance. Experience powerful live pitches from Black founders, makers, and creatives sharing the ideas they’re building, dreaming of, and fighting for. This isn’t a competition. It’s a stage for possibility.
The evening will also feature live music by local Black artists, Local Black maker tables, themed drinks, and a chance to meet the founders and connect with the community.
About Pitch Black
Pitch Black Showcase is the signature event of Pitch Black, a platform for elevating Black ideas across industries and across the country. Since 2015, we’ve spotlighted Black founders and creators with bold visions—from outdoor adventure startups to sneaker-themed coffee shops to sustainability-focused development firms.
Pitch Black is where Black brilliance takes the stage and invites the world to listen.

Stephen Green is the founder of Pitch Black and Vanport Studio, dedicated to amplifying Black entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive business ecosystems. A champion of economic empowerment, he has spent his career building networks that support underrepresented founders in accessing capital, mentorship, and opportunities.

Ciara Pressler is an entrepreneur and community advocate, creator of the Portland Tea Party live show, and founder of Pregame, where she helps Oregon leaders build strategic plans and grow their teams. She’s also the author of Game Plan and Exit Stage Right, and a frequent speaker on business and career success.
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).