Published on Feb. 22, 2026
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) is hosting the return of the annual Culture+ Commerce Market, a pop-up marketplace celebrating Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in Portland. This year’s event on February 21, 2026 will feature expanded family-friendly programming, including live music, dance, food, and activities highlighting the rich traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Why it matters
The Culture+ Commerce Market was created to support and showcase Black-owned businesses, foster community connections, and celebrate Black excellence and entrepreneurship in Portland. By integrating HBCU performances and cultural elements, the event aims to further amplify the city’s Black community and its contributions. The details
The Culture+ Commerce Market will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tony Hopson, Sr. Center for Self Enhancement. In addition to the marketplace of Black-owned vendors, the event will feature line dancing, face painting, story time, and the new Culture Café serving culturally inspired food and drinks. SEI is partnering with the Portland Trail Blazers and Alaska Airlines as part of the third annual HBCU to the Pros Weekend, bringing marching band performances from Southern University and Prairie View A&M University to elevate the celebration. The Culture+ Commerce Market will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2026.
The players
Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI)A nonprofit organization founded in 1981 that has been a cornerstone for African American youth and families in Portland, with a 98% high school graduation rate and 85% of students pursuing post-secondary education.Southern University Human Jukebox Marching BandThe marching band from Southern University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, that will be performing at the Culture+ Commerce Market.Prairie View A&M University Marching StormThe marching band from Prairie View A&M University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in Prairie View, Texas, that will be performing at the Culture+ Commerce Market.Portland Trail BlazersThe professional basketball team in Portland, Oregon that is partnering with SEI as part of the HBCU to the Pros Weekend.Alaska AirlinesThe airline company that is partnering with SEI as part of the HBCU to the Pros Weekend.
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The takeaway
The Culture+ Commerce Market demonstrates how a community-driven event can uplift Black entrepreneurship, showcase cultural traditions, and foster a sense of pride and belonging for Portland’s Black residents. By integrating HBCU performances and expanding family programming, the organizers are taking the experience to new heights and reinforcing the event’s role as a cornerstone celebration of Black excellence.
