Yovette Gilbert is the Founder and Executive Director of Denver Black Owned Businesses, a Colorado-based platform created to increase the visibility, connection, and support of Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and community leaders throughout the state.

As a Black woman and entrepreneur, Yovette understands that incredible businesses and talented people can exist right within our communities without always receiving the recognition, exposure, or support they deserve. She created Denver Black Owned Businesses to help change that by building a space where the community can discover Black-owned businesses, connect with local resources, support entrepreneurs, and intentionally circulate support within Colorado’s Black community.

That same vision inspired the Denver Black Owned Excellence Gala & Honors. Launched in 2026, the inaugural gala was created to recognize and celebrate the people behind the businesses, organizations, ideas, and contributions that help Colorado’s Black community thrive.

For Yovette, Black excellence is not defined by status, popularity, or the size of a business. It is found in the people who continue to build, create, serve, lead, and make an impact — including those whose work may not always receive the spotlight it deserves.

Her vision extends beyond one event. Through Denver Black Owned Businesses, Yovette is building a year-round platform where Colorado’s Black businesses, authors, organizations, churches, creatives, professionals, and community resources can be discovered, celebrated, supported, and connected.

The Denver Black Owned Excellence Gala & Honors is one part of a much bigger vision: creating greater visibility, stronger connections, and more opportunities for Black excellence to be recognized throughout Colorado.