Cultural producer and brand strategist Debora Charmelus is excited to announce the fifth installment of CADO, Philadelphia’s leading market for goods, ideas, and culture that highlights the Philadelphia region’s Black artists, small businesses, and makers at a space with a rich Black history, taking place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 12 pm - 4 pm as a part of the DesignPhiladelphia conference.

This iteration of CADO, produced with support from DesignPhiladelphia, draws inspiration from the historic Colored Mechanics Fair, honoring the creativity and entrepreneurship of Black artisans, designers, and inventors. CADO marketplace offers a curated selection of products spanning home decor, clothing, art, jewelry, and more, each crafted with skill and passion. In addition to a marketplace experience - we'll be hosting a day of programming including lightning talks featuring 1838 Black Metropolis, WHYY Building Bridges, and Black Soul Summer, focusing on their experience as Black creatives and community builders. This year's collaboration with the DesignPhiladelphia Festival amplifies CADO's mission, providing a platform for Black creatives to showcase their talents and connect with a broader audience, fostering growth and appreciation within the community. Join CADO in celebrating innovation, culture, and community at DesignPhiladelphia.

Founded by Ms. Charmelus and produced by Kontan Creative, CADO is an incubator that allows creatives from across the Philadelphia region to meet, support, and discover Black-owned and/or led brands. In past years, donations from CADO ticket sales resulted in more than $1,000 donated to grassroots organizations such as the North Philly Peace Park, the Youth Empowerment for Advanced Hangout (YEAH Philly), and VM Haiti. This year CADO will be open to the public offering free admission to the curious and creative minds of Philadelphia. By removing the ticket barrier, we aim to foster an even more inclusive environment where everyone can explore, connect, and engage with the dynamic art and design community. While admission is free, we encourage donations, which will continue to support local grassroots organizations and initiatives that empower and uplift underrepresented communities. Join us in celebrating creativity, community, and the power of collective impact!

Since its inception, CADO has also welcomed more than 350+ engaged attendees and more than 50 Black vendors and business owners. According to the Office of Economic Opportunity, only 2.5% percent of small businesses in Philadelphia are Black-owned. CADO’s goal is to be Philadelphia’s premiere design-forward market, while providing space to uplift small businesses and creatives and contributing to the local economy.

DesignPhiladelphia is supporting CADO in its fifth year as a community partner by integrating CADO as a part of the programming for its 2024 design festival.

WHO
● Debora Charmelus, Founder of CADO and Kontan Creative @deb0nair @kontan.creative
● DesignPhiladelphia, @designphilly

WHEN
Saturday, October 5, 2024
12pm - 4pm Most attendees arriving by 12pm

WHERE
Center for DesignPhiladelphia 1218 Arch Street Philadelphia, PA 19107