June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Throughout this month, Broadway Stages is excited to celebrate and recognize a few of our many LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors. We encourage you to join the celebrations throughout the city this month and to patronize the LGBTQ+ businesses in your neighborhood year-round! Today, we share information about the New York chapter of the National LBGTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and the work they are doing to advance economic opportunities for LGBTQ+ business owners. 

The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the business voice of the LGBTQ+ community and the most significant global not-for-profit advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ+ people. With approximately 220,000 businesses in New York City, the LGBTQ+ community is well represented with its own chapter, the nglccNY.

The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce New York (nglccNY) provides its members with transformational networking and educational opportunities that increase the financial, intellectual, and social capital of the LGBTQ+ business community.

As the NY LGBTQ+  & Allied Business Network of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), nglccNY provides certification opportunities for Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® (Certified LGBTBE®)suppliers. This network of suppliers builds relationships with America’s leading corporations, generates prospective business and clients, and collectively teams with each other for contracting opportunities.

So how does nglccNY help LGBTQ+ business owners succeed? They give their members access to strategic partnerships, education, and access to capital and marketing platforms. Membership also provides discounts and helps gain procurement opportunities. And in keeping with the NYC Pride theme, “Strength in Solidarity,” they keep members on the forefront of legislative issues and provide advocacy for LGBTQ business causes and non-discriminatory affairs.

A large and dynamic organization, the nglccNY serves their members through diverse programs. Member’s Monthly Mixers, nglccNY Biz Pitch, Webinars, and Roundtables are only a few items on a growing list.

Businesses at least 51% owned and operated by LGBT individuals can apply to become certified today. Or, if you are an ally who supports equity, you can find a qualified business by searching their database online. And, with so much happening and being offered, we encourage you to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.