Q: Will this space ever become a rental space for the public or an organization?
Yes. This building belongs to the community; we invite non-profit organizations and IBE community partners to explore opportunities to use the space. Availability is based on the inactivity of our existing youth and family, and business programs. Rental space is not available in July and September.
Q: Would IBE be open to showcasing at community events?
Yes. Please contact (communications@indianablackexpo.com) about how we can visit your event and share information about our programs and sponsorship opportunities.
Q: IBE is doing Great work! Is there any hope for the Y’s (YMCA) building? The loss is great in the community.
Like the rest of the community on the far eastside, we continue to follow the conversations about the possibilities of the former Ransburg YMCA building. Our plan is to continue monitoring progress and to ensure we are involved in any conversations about possible plans. The building sits adjacent to us – they are our neighbor – so it’s important that whatever decisions are made serve the best interests of our community.
Q: What process is used to pick participants for the programs?
Our programs are open to the public, and registration is available on our website and social media platforms. We don’t “pick” participants, but we do have a cap on the number we can effectively accommodate.
Q: What is the plan for getting folks involved in ALL IBE events and activities?
Through our chapters and the organization’s headquarters, IBE has marketed and continues to market our programming and events across the entire state. We are currently working with our sponsors and key stakeholders to rebuild our public trust and regain our position as a voice and vehicle for the African American community. We’re also focusing on educating our community about who we are, our youth and family programming and how special events such as Summer Celebration and Circle City Classic serve as the funding mechanism for the year-round work of our organization.
Q: Given the evolving future of the Circle City Classic, what strategic partnerships or community collaborations do you believe are most critical not only to preserve its legacy but also to expand its cultural, economic and long-term impact for Indianapolis and HBCU stakeholders?
The success of the reimagined Circle City Classic is rooted in our strategic partnerships and collaborations with our entire community. There is no one entity that will determine our fate. It will take everyone becoming involved, being supportive, encouraging and moving from the sideline to the frontline to help us with this effort. We recognize that what is being proposed is a shift from some of our traditions, but there are many opportunities to engage a new audience, reconnect with our longtime supporters and position Circle City Classic for long-term success. It will take our entire village for us to accomplish this.
Q: IBE “feels” like a July & September event space. IBE needs to be an everyday presence in Indy. Do you agree, and how can this be accomplished?
You are right, which is why we are reprioritizing how we tell our story. Through programs such as the Performing Arts Academy, IBE Business Training Institute, Taking Your Seat Leadership Institute, Amplify You, and numerous youth enrichment programs, we have an everyday, year-round presence in Indianapolis. We just need to share our work and also the outcomes that impact the quality of life for many families throughout our community.
Q: What is the possibility of getting a dedicated staff to work classic year-round and bring back Central State University and Kentucky State University?
At this time, with the recently announced pivot to high school girls’ flag football and boys’ football in 2026, the introduction of an HBCU Basketball Invitational in 2027, and the costs associated with our previous model, there are no plans to hire a dedicated staff for the Circle City Classic.
Q: What and why did you start IBE, and what is one good thing that you would say about IBE?
Now in its 56th year, IBE was founded in 1970, just a few years after the Civil Rights Movement, during a pivotal moment in Black history. While the era brought significant challenges for Black communities, it also ushered in new opportunities for our voices to be heard, our achievements to be recognized, and our culture to be celebrated.
The first exposition, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, created a platform for Black-owned businesses to showcase their products and services while providing families with a welcoming space to celebrate Black culture, identity, and community free from judgment, discrimination, and racial injustice.
One thing that has remained constant about IBE is its unwavering commitment to celebrating the experiences, contributions, and accomplishments of Black people. Through every societal, political, environmental, and economic challenge, IBE has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift, empower, and prioritize the needs and impact of the Black community.
About Indiana Black Expo
Indiana Black Expo, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with 12 chapter affiliates across Indiana. Its mission is to serve as a voice and vehicle for the social and economic advancement of African Americans. IBE is known for producing two of Indiana’s largest cultural events—Summer Celebration and Circle City Classic®—and for year-round programming in education, workforce development, health equity, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment.