

MIX: Telling Our Story - the Narrative of Baltimore and the Power to Shape it
Inviting all innovators, changemakers, artists, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, community leaders, educators, and neighbors to join us at the launch of the Monthly Innovation eXchange!
Telling Our Story: The Narrative of Baltimore and the Power to Shape It
Stories define cities. They influence how we see ourselves, how others see us, and what opportunities we attract. Baltimore’s narrative is powerful-but who gets to tell it? How do we amplify voices that reflect the city’s full complexity, creativity, and resilience? And how do we challenge narratives that limit growth and equity?
This MIX explores the power of storytelling as a tool for economic development, cultural identity, and systems change.
MIX isn’t a panel; it’s an active space for conversation, imagination, and new connections.
Featured Innovators include:
Alanah Davis - Chief Storyteller, City of Baltimore
Nicole King - Professor of American Studies, UMBC
Chris Riehl - Owner, Rent-a-tour
Whitney Frazier - Creative Director, WGF Studio
Lakey Boyd - Chief Economic Officer, Greater Baltimore Committee
Crystal Harden-Lindsey - Vice President of Community Impact, Baltimore Community Foundation
5:00 – 5:30 PM | Arrival & Open Networking
5:30 – 6:00 PM | Innovator Lightning Talks
6:00 – 6:50 PM | Rotating Discussions with Innovators
6:50 – 7:00 PM | Reflections & Wrap-Up
7:00 – 8:00 PM | Open Networking
If you would like to arrive early, our Civic Lounge, located on the 1st floor of 4MLK is a great space to have a quick chat, get some work done, or grab a cup of coffee.
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What is MIX?
Launching September 3, the Monthly Innovation eXchange (MIX) will take place on the 1st Wednesday of each month.
MIX is a monthly gathering designed to spark collaboration, share ideas, and strengthen our innovation community. People from startups, industry, nonprofits, academia, government, creatives, entrepreneurs, researchers, civic leaders, and ecosystem partners come together to explore a rotating theme through lightning talks, small-group conversations, and informal networking. Whether you're launching a new venture, driving scientific discovery, or building community infrastructure, MIX is a space to connect, learn, and grow - together. Enjoy happy hour bites, meaningful dialogue, and the chance to get inspired by others shaping the future in and around our region.
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