Best in Black Awards

Nominations Are Closed! 

Thank your to everybody who nominated their favorite business for recognition.

We will be reaching out to nominees soon. Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming voting period.

Best in Black Awards Show

Thursday, November 12 | 7 PM – 9 PM
National Civil Rights Museum

About the Best in Black Awards

The Best In Black (BIB) Awards, hosted by the Tri-State Defender, is an endeavor to shine a spotlight on some of the most outstanding Black businesses, community organizations, entrepreneurs, and individuals in the Mid-South. The mission of the Best In Black Awards is to celebrate Black-owned and operated businesses while serving as a marketing and recognition platform that amplifies the selected honorees.

This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as we commemorate the Tri-State Defender’s 75th anniversary, a milestone that reflects decades of commitment, service, and impact in the community. The Best In Black Awards gives members of the community an opportunity to nominate and vote for businesses, organizations, and individuals, while providing the Tri-State Defender with a platform to promote and celebrate the businesses and organizations that support our media platforms and the communities we serve.

The Tri-State Defender wants to thank all sponsors for the event and look forward to future engagement.

This year the 2026 Best In Black Awards will be held on Thursday, November 12, at the National Civil Rights Museum. To learn more about the Best in Black event, download the sponsorship packet or call one of our representatives for more information.

  Download Sponsor Packet | Call the office at 901.523.1818

We look forward to seeing you this year at the 2026 Best in Black Awards.

Calvin Anderson, President
Deidre Malone, Vice-President
Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq., Secretary
Stephanie R. Jones, Editor
Latasha Jackson, Administrator

Tickets are $75 + taxes & fees. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets