The OPEN DC Conference and Gala, 2025

Power. Access. Voice.
Influence isn’t given. But it can be built.

Join the DMVs most dynamic entrepreneurs, executives, and changemakers for an afternoon of conversation, connection, and community at the OPEN DC Conference and Gala, 2025.

This year’s theme: Building Influence — in the DMV and Beyond, explores how immigrant and minority founders and executives can strategically build influence, learning from leaders in business, media, entertainment, and politics who have done exactly that:

• Juan Pablo Segura, Virginia Secretary of Commerce & Trade — on how immigrant business communities drive impact.
• Ahmed Khattak, Founder & CEO of US Mobile — on scaling a $200M business without paid marketing.
• Sarah Wolek, Delegate, Maryland State Legislature - on turning civic engagement into real political influence.
• Shaarik Zafar, Public Policy, Meta — on navigating power in Washington.
• Bismah Ahmed, former Miss DC and lobbyist — on turning visibility into voice.
• Plus founders, investors, and policymakers shaping influence across the DMV.

Then stay for the evening gala, dinner, and live music where deals are made, partnerships begin, and new leaders emerge.

Seats are limited, and this event always sells out.

Register now to be part of the movement redefining influence in the DMV and beyond.