Circle City Classic® Talent Day: A Game-Changer for Indiana’s Workforce
For more than four decades, Indiana Black Expo’s Circle City Classic® has stood as a beacon of culture, tradition, and opportunity. Since 1984, the Classic has not only celebrated the rich heritage of HBCUs but also fueled opportunity—awarding more than $5 million in scholarships to deserving students and contributing more than $340 million to the Indianapolis economy.
This year, the Classic is taking its legacy to new heights with the Circle City Classic® Career & Talent Day, a bold new initiative designed to connect the best of Indiana’s employers with the brightest rising talent. On September 26, 2025, from 1 to 5 p.m. inside Lucas Oil Stadium, the doors will open for an event that has the power to change career trajectories and strengthen Indiana’s economy for years to come.
The Career & Talent Day is more than a job fair—it’s a launchpad for future leaders. Student-athletes from HBCUs, recent graduates from Indiana’s colleges, and young professionals from across the region will step into a space where opportunity meets ambition. Here, they will be able to network directly with employers representing some of the state’s most in-demand industries, from technology and healthcare to business, engineering, and finance.
“Circle City Classic has always been about celebrating culture and creating opportunity,” said Jennifer Darby, Chief of Staff at Indiana Black Expo. “Talent Day takes that mission a step further by placing talented young people face-to-face with employers who are ready to invest in them.”
What makes this event especially impactful is the format. Beginning at 3 p.m., every participating company will take the stage to share their story—five minutes to show why they are the best place to start or grow a career. These presentations transform the event from a traditional fair into a true talent showcase, giving young professionals the chance to hear directly from decision-makers about the advantages of working in Indiana.
Beyond individual opportunity, the stakes are high for the state as a whole. With one of the lowest costs of living in the country, a strong job market, and a growing number of corporations headquartered here, Central Indiana is uniquely positioned to become a magnet for young, diverse talent. Events like Talent Day are critical in branding Indiana as a destination for ambitious professionals who want to make their mark.
“Indiana has an incredible opportunity to show the nation that we are ready to compete for top talent,” said Kristen Lampkin, Director, Business Equity for Indy. “The Circle City Classic Career & Talent Day is more than an event—it’s a strategy to close workforce gaps, drive innovation, and build a stronger, more inclusive economy.”
For employers, the value is unmatched. By reserving a table at Talent Day, companies gain direct access to a motivated, diverse talent pool. They are not only filling positions but also investing in the future leadership of their industries and the long-term competitiveness of Indiana’s economy.
Business Equity for Indy is proud to support this initiative and to amplify the Classic’s continued legacy of impact. Circle City Classic® Talent Day is not just another event on the calendar—it is a pivotal moment for employers, young professionals, and the state of Indiana.
The time to act is now. Space is limited, and tables must be reserved by September 12, 2025. Employers ready to invest in talent and young professionals ready to launch their careers will meet under one roof at Lucas Oil Stadium.
On September 26th, Indiana won’t just be hosting another career fair—it will be setting the stage for the future. Sign up now to ensure your company is in the room!
