BrandLab Ignite Gala Minneapolis | Diversifying Marketing
BrandLab Ignite Gala Minneapolis arrives Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025 at the Renaissance Depot Hotel. The BrandLab’s signature fundraiser fuels a year-round pipeline for students and early-career talent from underrepresented backgrounds, including classroom exposure, paid internships, scholarships, mentorship, career coaching, and inclusive employer partnerships. Co-Executive Directors Michaela Clubb and Ken Lawrence will lead an evening of speakers, networking, auctions, food, and entertainment that centers young creatives and invites new partners to invest in an equitable marketing industry.
The BrandLab is preparing to host its annual Ignite Gala at the Renaissance Depot Hotel in Minneapolis on Thursday, September 25, drawing together a cross-section of young professionals, marketing leaders, and equity-minded community members. As the nonprofit’s signature fundraising event, the Ignite Gala provides critical support for The BrandLab’s year-round programming: initiatives designed to diversify and transform the marketing and advertising industries from the inside out.
Founded on the belief that the marketing profession should reflect the full range of voices and experiences in our communities, The BrandLab works with students and early-career professionals from historically underrepresented racial, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds. The organization offers a continuum of support that includes classroom exposure, paid internships, scholarships, career coaching, mentorship, and partnerships with inclusive employers across the Twin Cities and beyond.
“The BrandLab’s mission is to open the marketing and advertising profession to all voices and perspectives,” said Co-Executive Director Michaela Clubb. “We envision a world where young talent can build sustainable careers and feel a true sense of belonging in the workplace.”
Clubb leads all programming efforts at The BrandLab and has been with the organization for nearly five years, starting her journey as a coordinator before taking on a leadership role. She shares executive responsibilities with Ken Lawrence, who oversees development and organizational growth. Lawrence brings a long-standing relationship with the organization, having first joined the team in 2014 before returning in 2023 to help usher in a new era of strategic leadership and co-governance.
This year’s gala is especially meaningful to both leaders. In addition to being a celebration of progress, the evening is designed to engage more people in the movement to create an inclusive marketing industry. The program will feature speakers, a live and silent auction, and networking opportunities, as well as food and entertainment designed to reflect the energy and diversity of the BrandLab community.
Clubb said her favorite part of the annual event is the people it brings together. “There’s something really powerful about seeing marketing professionals, alumni, students, and corporate partners all in the same room, committed to a common goal. That energy carries us forward into the next year.”
Lawrence added that the gala also serves as an important reminder of the deeper reasons behind the work. “Marketing shapes culture,” he said. “It influences what we see, what we hear, and who feels seen. If the people creating those messages don’t reflect the diversity of our communities, the industry isn’t just missing out, it’s doing harm.”
The BrandLab’s mission resonates even more sharply in today’s social and political climate. In a moment marked by division and heightened awareness of systemic inequity, the organization’s commitment to cultivating inclusive and equitable work environments feels both urgent and hopeful.
“We know that diverse teams perform better,” Lawrence said. “They’re more creative, more connected to consumers, and more effective overall. But beyond performance, it’s about making sure every story has the chance to be told.”
The BrandLab acknowledges that creating safe and inclusive spaces is an ongoing effort. While no environment can guarantee 100% safety, the organization is intentional about building a culture of belonging through thoughtful partnerships, supervisor and participant training, and open lines of communication for feedback and accountability.
Clubb noted that their approach includes being willing to listen and evolve. “When we get it wrong, we try to do the hard work to make it right. That’s part of what building an inclusive community looks like.”
For supporters considering a financial contribution, Lawrence emphasized that every dollar goes directly into programming that makes a tangible difference. “When someone invests in The BrandLab, they’re investing in the future of the marketing profession. They’re investing in young talent who might not have otherwise had access to these spaces.”
The organization hopes attendees walk away from the gala feeling inspired and motivated to take part, whether through volunteering, internship partnerships, financial giving, or simply starting conversations in their own companies and communities. “We want this event to spark something,” said Clubb.
“The world has changed a lot in the past few years, but our mission hasn’t. We’re here to help young people build meaningful careers, and we’re here to make sure this profession truly reflects the world we live in.”
One thing that sets the Ignite Gala apart from other industry events is its intergenerational and inclusive atmosphere. Unlike traditional galas that often skew older and more corporate, The BrandLab’s gathering is designed to center the very people it serves: young professionals, emerging creatives, and community advocates.
“It’s not just a room full of executives in suits,” said Clubb. “Our alumni, participants, and young leaders are present and celebrated. That’s what makes the event feel so alive.”
As the organization looks toward another year of growth and impact, Clubb and Lawrence hope the gala continues to serve as both a celebration of what’s been achieved and a launchpad for what’s possible.
Tickets and sponsorships for the Ignite Gala are still available through The BrandLab’s website. For more information, visit www.thebrandlab.org.
Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com.