Since its start, the NBOTB event has served as the nation’s kick-off to the fall marching band season. This annual event hosted by the Harris County – Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA), in partnership with Webber Marketing, serves as a yearly celebration of arts, education, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) culture.   

2024 marks a special occasion for the NBOTB as it honors the 10th anniversary of the event and its 6th year in Houston. To date, event organizers have generated nearly $1.7 million in scholarships, with over $400,000 donated this year, for participating colleges and universities and it generates nearly $20 million in economic impact annually for Houston and Harris County. This substantial economic boost supports local businesses, particularly those owned by Black and brown entrepreneurs, further amplifying the event’s community impact.

“The NBOTB is a yearly celebration of HBCU culture in our city, dedicated to fostering change through scholarships, community programs, and educational initiatives,” said Chris Massey, Chief Operating Officer of the Harris County – Houston Sports Authority. “As we wrap up another incredible year, I’m thrilled by the community support, the scholarship achievements, and the incredible youth involvement we’ve had throughout the weekend. The future is extremely bright, and we look to creating an even larger positive impact in our community over the next ten years.” 

As the NBOTB event has grown, so have the opportunities for local students. This year, thousands of local youth received tickets to attend the HBCU S.T.E.M. College Recruitment Fair and the NBOTB event. Students had the chance to connect with representatives from numerous universities, with some even receiving immediate scholarship and acceptance offers. Over the years, the event has contributed significant funds in scholarships to support educational and cultural initiatives.