CultureCon, Presented by Chase Ink, Unveils “Museum of Us,” A New Vision for the Modern Creative Economy.

This year’s festival theme reflects the evolution of today’s creator economy through immersive experiences, entrepreneurial education and meaningful community

As today’s creators increasingly become founders, entrepreneurs and business leaders, CultureCon, the annual gathering that has become a cornerstone for the creative community, is evolving alongside them. Returning to Brooklyn October 3-4, CultureCon 2026 introduces Museum of Us, a new festival experience celebrating those shaping culture in real time. Presented by Chase Ink, this year’s event expands beyond inspiration with immersive programming, practical business education and community-driven experiences designed for the next generation of creative leaders.

Inspired by the belief that the people shaping culture deserve to be celebrated while they’re creating it, not decades later, Museum of Us reimagines CultureCon through the lens of a contemporary museum, where the festival floor becomes the gallery, the stages become the exhibitions, and the conversations become a living archive. Rather than looking back at history, this year’s experience celebrates the people actively building what’s next through business, storytelling, art, technology and community.

That evolution comes to life through a festival experience built around tangible career growth, anchored by an additional campus building that expands the festival footprint. New for 2026, that space will house Braindate, enabling community-led conversations and peer-to-peer mentorship throughout the weekend; the Career Stage, dedicated to recruiting, mentorship and professional development; and the returning Vendor Market, spotlighting independent creative businesses and makers. Also new this year is the Creative Business Stage, a destination for creators looking to sharpen their entrepreneurial toolkit through practical conversations and expert-led sessions. 

Returning and expanded this year are the Founder Summit, presented by Chase Ink, and the Creator Summit. Rounding out the weekend are personalized CultureCon Tracks, enhanced recruiter experiences connecting attendees with leading brands, immersive workshops and a broader CultureCon Week, bringing exclusive programming across New York City leading into the festival weekend. 

Together, these experiences reflect CultureCon’s continued commitment to equipping creatives with more than inspiration—they’re designed to foster meaningful relationships, unlock new opportunities and provide practical resources that help attendees build lasting careers and businesses long after the weekend ends.

“The creative economy has changed dramatically over the last few years. Today’s creatives are building so much more than beautiful work. They’re launching businesses, leading companies, creating opportunities and shaping culture every day,” said Imani Ellis, Founder and CEO of CultureCon. “We’re no longer waiting for permission to tell us our work matters. Museum of Us is our way of honoring those shaping culture in real time, because we believe the stories worth preserving are still being written.”

Chase Ink returns as Presenting Sponsor of CultureCon for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to entrepreneurs, founders and creators by delivering meaningful resources, expert guidance and opportunities for connection. Attendees will gain practical insights from industry leaders and business owners and leave with tangible strategies for growing and sustaining their businesses through Founder Summit and Culture Stage programming sessions presented by Chase Ink.

The weekend will feature dedicated spaces for learning, networking and celebration, including Chase Ink Cash Back Connect, a curated coffee and matcha café for exchanging ideas, building relationships and connecting one-on-one with Chase Ink bankers and product specialists. Chase Ink will also debut a Museum of Us inspired gallery spotlighting entrepreneurs’ successes and aspirations.

CultureCon 2026 will feature conversations with influential voices across business, entertainment, technology and culture, with additional speakers and programming to be announced in the coming weeks. CultureCon Week returns September 28 through October 2 with events and experiences across New York City, culminating in the annual CultureCon festival October 3-4 at Duggal Greenhouse in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Tickets are available now at CultureConCollective.com

ABOUT CULTURECON

CultureCon is the largest creative festival for creative entrepreneurs, creators, and cultural influencers. Sitting at the intersection of creativity and community, CultureCon offers workshops, resources and tools to help the next generation of cultural forces take their dreams to the next level. Coined, the ultimate creative homecoming, CultureCon features conversations that range from building a business to building a life. Past CultureCon speakers include Michelle Obama, Tracee Ellis Ross, Spike Lee, John Legend, Teyana Taylor, Regina King, KeKe Palmer, Lena Waithe, Coleman Domingo, Sanaa Lathan and more.