This year, the Higher Purpose Hub is consolidating its three flagship initiatives—the Community Market, Business Summit, and Awards Gala—into a single, unified weekend. The event aims to draw a diverse crowd of entrepreneurs, creatives, and families to engage with local food, wellness programs, and professional development sessions. Dr. Tim Lampkin, founder and executive director, described the festival as a culmination of a decade spent investing in the region’s people and potential.

The festivities begin August 6 with a public market featuring culinary demonstrations by Talisa Shivers and Turnip Todd, alongside wellness sessions led by Maya Morris and Candace Sausberry. The focus shifts to professional development on August 7 during the Business Summit, which includes a keynote from SBA Person of the Year Ameka Coleman and a fireside chat with Akeem Ali. Industry panels will feature experts ranging from Grammy-winning artist Audri Johnson to Delta Dirt Distillery CEO Harvey Williams. The weekend concludes August 8 with an awards gala honoring local leaders, headlined by R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn. While all events are free to the public, organizers require advance registration via the festival's official website.