In today’s increasingly diverse workforce, members of the LGBTQ community hold more leadership positions than ever before and LGBTQ entrepreneurs play a vital role in driving innovation and economic growth.

However, members of the LGBTQ community can face unique challenges on their journey to success. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to assist you. Whether you’re looking for legal advice, to become an LGBTQ-certified business, or simply to network, there are many organizations available to help LGBTQ business professionals navigate challenges, protect your rights, and offer opportunities.

Let’s explore some local, regional, and national LGBTQ-focused business resources, as well as some local LGBTQ-owned businesses to consider supporting in the Greater Philadelphia area.

LGBTQ-Focused Business Organizations

Independence Business Alliance

IBA is the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Chamber of Commerce for the Greater Philadelphia region. IBA provides opportunities, access, and resources to LGBTQ+ professionals and allies by promoting economic development, growth, diversity, and leadership in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties by enhancing financial opportunities, fostering diversity, developing leadership and collaboration, and advocating for positive change.

Keystone Business Alliance

KBA is an award-winning LGBT Chamber of Commerce, connecting businesses to regional and national opportunities and certification. Serving 8 South Central PA counties, KBA is a leading driver of economic development through inclusion in their service region as well as through their network statewide and nationally. KBA is committed to expanding the economic interests of LGBT and allied businesses through education, advocacy, and partnership with the local business community.

Minority Business Development Agency

The MBDA in Philadelphia is committed to supporting minority-owned businesses, including those owned by members of the LGBT community. Through business consulting, access to capital, and networking opportunities, the MBDA helps LGBT entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and achieve success in the marketplace.

Montgomery County LGBT Business Council

The mission of the Montgomery County LGBT Business Council is to create networking, social and business opportunities for LGBTQ+ business professionals and allies in Montgomery County through education, training, professional development, and policy advocacy.

National LGBT Chamber of Commerce

NGLCC is the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ people, and the exclusive certifying body for LGBTQ-owned businesses. Certification provides opportunities for LGBT-owned businesses to participate in supplier diversity programs with major corporations and government agencies. Over 1/3 of Fortune 500 recognize this certification and partner with NGLCC to create fully LGBTQ-inclusive supply-chains.

StartOut

StartOut accelerates the growth of the LGBTQ+ community to drive its economic empowerment, building a world where every LGBTQ+ entrepreneur has equal access to lead, succeed, and shape the workforce of the future.

National Pride Grant

The LGBTQIA+ National Pride Grant provides eligible small businesses the chance to receive one of 25 grant packages totaling $25,000. Founders First is committed to increasing the number of diverse founder-led businesses generating over $1 million dollars in revenues.

The Chester County LGBT Equality Alliance

The Chester County LGBT Equality Alliance’s Business Networking Group offers a unique opportunity for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals to connect, share experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate on joint ventures.

Looking to Support LGBTQ-Owned businesses? Check Out these Guides:

• LGBTQ-Owned Shops, Restaurants, and More in Philadelphia: ThePhiladelphiaCitizen.org
• Philadelphia Pride Shopping Guide: 10 LGBTQ Businesses with Charm: BillyPenn.com
• LGBTQ+ Owned Eats & Stays for Your PA Bucket List: VisitPA.com
• Queer & Affirming Businesses — Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition: LGBTLancaster.org
• Shop LGBTQ+ Owned and Operated Businesses in Montgomery County: ValleyForge.org

Resources for LGBTQ Professionals in Business from Citadel

Our financial experts here at Citadel Credit Union can also provide the guidance and tools to help you build financial strength along the way. Our investment team can create a custom strategy that helps protect your personal finances as well as your business, and our Business Banking team will partner with you to determine the right mix of accounts, loans, and services that’s tailored to your business’ current needs and scalable for future growth. Since Citadel is a not-for-profit credit union, we can offer a unique level of service and commitment to help build financially strong businesses that directly influence and care for our communities, families, and overall local economic health.