There are many kinds of people in the world. Some are gifted with artistic creativity, others come with enviable mechanical and construction skills (in a multitude of fields from building to surgery), while others have a fineally tuned understanding for finance.
Rarely do we come across that unique individual who can excel in all of those areas. While we’re not saying they don’t exist, the differences in humanity often make our personal and professional relationships symbiotic.
No matter how much you may dedicate yourself to the concept of art for art’s sake; finding unknown answers for challenging questions or making sure your small business or larger company is functioning at its optimum level, chances are you’re going to benefit from networking and advice when it comes to finances.
As much as some people may find that topic of discussion personally invasive, LGBTQ+ Chambers of Commerce and business guilds can offer professionals and business owners in our community the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals on the path to increasing wealth, equity and a potentially secure and better future.
In the Carolinas, there’s no shortage of organizations and opportunity.
Based in Charlotte but offering membership opportunities throughout the two state region, is the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce (CLGBTCC).
According to the Commerce website, their list of members includes LGBTQ+ and allied businesses and professionals from North and South Carolina. Among those in North Carolina are Charlotte Metro, the Blue Ridge Network, (which includes Asheville and Western North Carolina); Gate City (the Greensboro and High Point area); and the Twin City Network (also known as the Winston-Salem region). In South Carolina membership includes the Grand Stand District (covering Myrtle Beach and the surrounding area); the Low Country District (Charleston) and the Midlands Network, for those in and around Columbia.
In May of this year, CLGBTCC moved their headquarters to the Impact Center for the Carolinas, located at 2838 Queen City Drive, Suite A, in Charlotte. With over 2,800 square feet, the center serves as the administrative home for the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, offering a co-working and training hub, providing resources and guidance for entrepreneurs and small business owners; a multipurpose room for educational programs, events, workforce development initiatives, and professional training; and a Wi-Fi lounge & collaboration space, creating an environment where professionals and business leaders can connect. The multipurpose room, Wi-Fi lounge, co-working space and training hub will be available to members and partners, and can be reserved. For more details and membership information, visit their website at https://www.clgbtcc.org.
Headquartered in Raleigh is the Harmony North Carolina LGBT+ Allied Chamber of Commerce, which includes members from as many as 50 counties in the Eastern region of the state. The organization provides resources and networking opportunities for professionals and businesses in our community and those allied throughout Eastern North Carolina, with a central focus on Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.
Harmony describes who they are and their purpose as follows:
• To establish and nurture a network of business and professional resources
• To encourage fellowship and support among businesses,; professionals, and charitable pursuits;
• To provide and promote positive role models in the LGBT communities
• To oppose prejudice in society at large and within the homosexual community on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, race, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental impairment, or political affiliation• To oppose the exploitation of anyone because of age, gender, or lack of power; and
• To promote communication, tolerance, and mutual support among gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, transgender people and accepting heterosexuals.
Harmony’s address is listed as 1204 Village Market Place #267, in Morrisville, North Carolina
For more information and requirements for membership, visit their website at https://www.harmonync.org/.
In Greenville, South Carolina is the Upstate SC LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, which serves members in areas like Abbeville, Anderson, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and others. These counties form the northwestern area of the state which is a region historically known as the Upcountry.
As the first and only LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce specifically dedicated to our community in the state of South Carolina, Upstate identifies as LGBT+ professionals and allies who understand that diversity, equality and economic empowerment are vital for any healthy community.
From the website: “We’re here to help you connect with businesses that enhance your life and to help those businesses grow. From creating connections and professional development opportunities to providing resources and advocacy, our Chamber is here to support you.”
Their physical address is listed as The Poinsett Club, at 807 E Washington Street in Greenville, South Carolina. More information on the organization and membership is available at https://upstatelgbt.org/.