Martha’s Vineyard — Once known primarily as a quiet vacation spot for affluent Black families, Martha’s Vineyard has transformed in August into a premier gathering ground for Black entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate leaders.
This month, some of the biggest names in business, including Disney, Cisco, Goldman Sachs, McDonald’s, Google, Ford, McKinsey, and Comcast, are hosting or sponsoring business events across the island. From pitch sessions to panel talks, the Vineyard is evolving into more than a place for rest: it’s a hub for commerce, culture, and connection.
“The magic of it is really about introducing your network to someone else’s network,” said Calvin L. Butts Jr., founder of East Chop Capital. “We’ve raised capital, sourced deals, and created opportunities here.”
Events like “The Gathering,” hosted by the Black Economic Alliance, are creating platforms for conversations around Black economic empowerment. Meanwhile, brands such as Ralph Lauren and EBONY Magazine are leveraging the Vineyard’s rich cultural legacy to deepen brand ties and visibility.
This year also marks the debut of the “Vineyard Icon Awards,” founded by Erin Goldson and backed by sponsors like Diageo and Estée Lauder. The awards recognize Black leaders shaping both industry and influence.
“For EBONY, being present on the Vineyard in August is both strategic and personal,” said CEO Eden Bridgeman Sklenar. “It’s where history, culture, and modern business intersect.”
With legacy, luxury, and leadership converging each August, Martha’s Vineyard is becoming more than a summer destination, it’s becoming a movement.
