NCTRCA to Host “A Night at the MET Gala” Celebrating Momentum, Excellence and Economic Transformation in North Texas
An iconic evening of influence, enterprise and artistic expression
ARLINGTON, Texas — The North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (NCTRCA) will host A Night at the MET Gala: Momentum. Excellence. Transformation., a museum-inspired black-tie evening celebrating the leaders, innovators, and certified small businesses shaping the future of the North Texas economy.
The North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (NCTRCA) is a local governmental entity and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to certifying small businesses across the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area. NCTRCA serves member entities including cities, counties, school districts, transit authorities, and public agencies to expand access, create pathways, and champion the economic power of certified small businesses throughout the region.
Inspired by the iconic Met Gala, this signature event will unite influential executives, emerging entrepreneurs, and small business advocates for a night defined by three pillars:
Momentum: Celebrating the energy and forward progress of North Texas' business community.
Excellence: Honoring those who set the standard and lead with distinction.
Transformation: Recognizing the power of certified small businesses to reshape the regional economy.
A Celebration of Art, Business and Culture
Guests can expect a high-energy, visually striking experience featuring:
Curated Art Gallery & Silent Art Auction
Featuring original works by local and regional artists from across North Texas, the gallery transforms the evening into a living celebration of creative talent and cultural expression. Artists from the region were invited to submit works that reflect the spirit of Momentum, Excellence, and Transformation, making this a true convergence of art, culture, and commerce.
Celebrity Guest & Keynote Speakers
The evening will feature a celebrity guest appearance and powerful speakers whose stories embody the MET theme—visionaries who have turned access into impact and ambition into legacy.
Speaker lineup to be announced.
Live Blue Carpet
Guests will walk the signature Blue Carpet upon arrival, with media coverage and appearances by local news outlets capturing the style, energy, and influence of the night.
The Blue Carpet is NCTRCA's bold declaration:
This is where business meets culture.
Event Details
Date: Friday, August 7, 2026
Blue Carpet Arrivals: 5:30 p.m.
VIP Reception: 6:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 7:00 p.m.
Location:
Live! by Loews Arlington
1600 Randol Mill Rd.
Arlington, TX 76011
Why It Matters
This marquee event underscores NCTRCA's enduring mission to expand access and create meaningful pathways for certified small businesses, reinforcing what the organization has long believed:
Proximity Is Key – Be In The Room.
Call for Artists
NCTRCA is actively seeking local and regional artists from across North Texas to submit works for the Curated Art Gallery and Silent Art Auction.
Selected artists will have their work displayed and auctioned during the event, gaining visibility among some of the region's most influential business and community leaders.
Interview Opportunities
The following spokespeople are available for pre-event and/or on-site interviews:
Angela Alexander — Executive Director, NCTRCA
H. Lewis Leonard — NCTRCA Board Chair (recommended addition)
Troy Bell — Artist, North Texas (recommended addition)
To schedule an interview or request Blue Carpet media credentials, contact KTA Media Group.
Learn More
For more information, tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.nctrca.org.
About NCTRCA
The North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (NCTRCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities for small businesses across the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area. Established through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement in 1989 and formally incorporated in 1992, NCTRCA provides federal, regional, and local business certifications that connect qualified firms to contracting and procurement opportunities with public and private entities.
Since its founding, NCTRCA has reviewed more than 30,000 certification applications and now serves a network of over 5,000 certified vendors across 16 North Texas counties. Its 20+ member entities include major cities, school districts, transportation authorities, and healthcare systems, each committed to promoting small businesses in public-sector contracting.
Through certification, collaboration, and advocacy, NCTRCA continues to ensure that small businesses have fair and meaningful access to participate in the region's economic growth.
Learn more at www.nctrca.org.
