Looking to start your own business as an LGBTQ+ entrepreneur? Look no further! We've compiled a list of the top free online resources that will provide you with the tools, knowledge, and support to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. With these valuable resources, you'll have access to expert advice, business templates, financial guidance, and networking opportunities, all tailored to support and empower LGBTQ+ individuals in the business world. From marketing strategies to funding options, these resources have got you covered. Discover the endless possibilities and turn your dreams into a reality with these amazing online business resources.
Community and Networking Platforms
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LGBT Network
The LGBT Network is a community and networking platform that aims to connect LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with resources, support, and like-minded individuals. This platform provides a safe and inclusive space for networking, mentorship opportunities, and business support. By joining the LGBT Network, you can tap into a vast network of individuals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
Start Out
Start Out is another fantastic community and networking platform for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. It is dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ individuals start and grow their businesses by connecting them with experienced mentors and providing educational resources. Start Out hosts various events, workshops, and networking opportunities, allowing entrepreneurs to share their knowledge and experiences. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale your business, Start Out can be an invaluable resource.
Out in Tech
Out in Tech is a community-driven organization focused on empowering LGBTQ+ individuals in the technology industry. This platform offers networking events, educational programs, and mentorship opportunities for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in the tech sector. Out in Tech aims to create a supportive and inclusive space where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive and succeed in their tech ventures. If you're passionate about technology and looking to connect with like-minded individuals, Out in Tech is the perfect platform for you.
Funding and Financial Assistance
National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is a renowned organization that advocates for the economic empowerment of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. The NGLCC offers various funding and financial assistance programs, such as grants and scholarships, specifically designed to support LGBTQ+ business owners. By accessing the resources and opportunities provided by the NGLCC, you can enhance your financial stability and fuel the growth of your business.
LGBTQ Entrepreneurs of Color Initiative (LEO)
The LGBTQ Entrepreneurs of Color Initiative (LEO) is an incredible program that addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs of color. LEO provides funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals from diverse backgrounds. By participating in LEO, you can connect with other LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs of color, gain access to funding opportunities, and receive vital support in growing your business.
LGBTQ Ventures
LGBTQ Ventures is an organization that focuses on providing financial support and resources to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. They offer grants, investments, and mentorship programs tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ business owners. By partnering with LGBTQ Ventures, you can not only secure financial assistance but also tap into their extensive network of mentors and advisors who can provide guidance and support throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
Mentorship and Business Support
NGPA Mentorship Program
The NGPA Mentorship Program is an initiative by the National Gay Pilots Association to support LGBTQ+ individuals seeking mentorship in various industries. This program pairs aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced professionals who can offer guidance, advice, and valuable insights. The NGPA Mentorship Program helps LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business by providing them with a mentor who understands their unique journey.
Gay & Lesbian Business Professionals Association (GLBPA)
The Gay & Lesbian Business Professionals Association (GLBPA) is dedicated to supporting the professional development and success of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. They provide mentorship opportunities, networking events, and educational resources aimed at empowering LGBTQ+ professionals in various industries. By engaging with GLBPA, you can connect with experienced mentors who can offer personalized guidance and support throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Alliance
The LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Alliance is a community-driven platform that aims to foster collaboration and support among LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs worldwide. This alliance offers mentorship programs, networking events, and educational resources to help LGBTQ+ individuals thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors. By joining the LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Alliance, you can connect with a diverse network of LGBTQ+ professionals, gain valuable insights, and receive the support you need to succeed.
Online Business Courses
LGBT Business Academy
The LGBT Business Academy offers a range of online courses designed to equip LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the business world. Their courses cover various topics, including business strategy, marketing, finance, and leadership. By enrolling in the LGBT Business Academy, you can access comprehensive resources that will not only enhance your business acumen but also provide insights specific to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurship Program (Stanford University)
Stanford University's LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurship Program is a highly reputable educational initiative that offers online courses specifically tailored for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. These courses cover a wide range of business topics, from ideation and business planning to funding strategies and scalability. By participating in the LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurship Program, you can learn from renowned faculty and industry experts and gain invaluable insights to propel your business forward.
National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Academy
The National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Academy offers online courses and educational resources to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs looking to expand their business knowledge and skills. Their courses cover a diverse range of topics, including marketing, financial management, and operations. By enrolling in the NGLCC Academy, you can access expert-led courses and leverage their extensive network to connect with other LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
Legal and Compliance Resources
Lambda Legal
Lambda Legal is a legal organization that focuses on advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. They offer a wide range of legal resources and support, including information on LGBTQ+ legal rights, assistance with legal challenges, and access to legal professionals familiar with LGBTQ+ issues. By engaging with Lambda Legal, you can ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and regulations and seek legal guidance when needed.
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ACLU LGBT Rights Project
The ACLU LGBT Rights Project is dedicated to protecting and advocating for the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. This project provides resources, legal support, and expertise on a variety of LGBTQ+ legal issues, including employment discrimination, equality in education, and transgender rights. By accessing the resources and support offered by the ACLU LGBT Rights Project, you can navigate potential legal challenges and ensure your business operates within a legal framework that safeguards LGBTQ+ rights.
National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR)
The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) is committed to advancing the rights of lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals through impact litigation, public policy advocacy, and public education. They provide legal resources and support, including information on LGBTQ+ legal rights, assistance with legal challenges, and referrals to LGBTQ+ friendly legal professionals. By engaging with the NCLR, you can stay updated on legal issues relevant to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and seek legal guidance as necessary.
Marketing and Branding
Outvertising
Outvertising is an LGBTQ+-owned marketing and advertising agency that specializes in helping businesses effectively reach and engage with LGBTQ+ audiences. They offer a range of marketing and branding services, including strategic planning, creative development, and media buying. By partnering with Outvertising, you can ensure that your marketing efforts are authentic, inclusive, and resonate with the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ Marketing & Advertising Agency
The LGBTQ+ Marketing & Advertising Agency is a full-service agency that focuses on assisting businesses in effectively reaching LGBTQ+ audiences and creating inclusive campaigns. They provide services such as brand development, digital marketing, and social media management. By collaborating with this agency, you can tap into their expertise in LGBTQ+ marketing and ensure that your brand outreach is both impactful and reflective of the diverse LGBTQ+ community.
GLAAD
GLAAD is a renowned LGBTQ+ media advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and representation in the media. They provide resources and support for businesses looking to improve their LGBTQ+ marketing and branding efforts. By engaging with GLAAD, you can access valuable insights, guidelines, and best practices that will help you create authentic and inclusive marketing campaigns that resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences.
Technology and App Development
LGBTQ in Technology Slack Community
The LGBTQ in Technology Slack Community is a platform that connects LGBTQ+ individuals working in technology-related fields. This community offers a supportive space for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. By joining the LGBTQ in Technology Slack Community, you can connect with LGBTQ+ professionals in the tech industry, seek advice, and find potential collaborators for your app development projects.
LGBT Technology Partnership
The LGBT Technology Partnership is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in the technology sector. They offer resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts to support and empower LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs involved in technology and app development. By engaging with the LGBT Technology Partnership, you can connect with like-minded individuals and access resources that will enhance your skills and opportunities in the technology field.
Lesbians Who Tech
Lesbians Who Tech is a community-driven organization that strives to increase visibility and support for LGBTQ+ individuals in the technology industry. They host events, conferences, and networking opportunities to connect LGBTQ+ individuals with diverse tech professionals. By engaging with Lesbians Who Tech, you can expand your network, share knowledge, and gain insights from experienced LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and professionals in the tech field.
Workshops and Conferences
Out for Undergrad (O4U)
Out for Undergrad (O4U) is a professional development program that aims to empower LGBTQ+ undergraduate students by providing them with resources and opportunities to excel in their chosen careers. O4U hosts annual conferences in various industries, including business, engineering, technology, and finance. By attending these conferences, you can network with industry professionals, gain insights into career paths, and forge connections that will benefit your entrepreneurial journey.
National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Conference
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Conference is a premier event for LGBTQ+-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals. This conference offers panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to empower and support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship. By attending the NGLCC Conference, you can connect with industry leaders, learn from experienced professionals, and gain valuable insights to enhance your business strategy.
Startout Growth Lab
Startout Growth Lab is an intensive seven-week program that helps LGBTQ+ founders accelerate their businesses. This program offers workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in scaling their ventures. By participating in the Startout Growth Lab, you can receive guidance from experienced mentors, learn key strategies for growth, and connect with a supportive community of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
Supportive Online Communities
LGBT Small Business Owners Facebook Group
The LGBT Small Business Owners Facebook Group is a vibrant community that brings together LGBTQ+ small business owners from diverse industries. This group provides a space for networking, sharing experiences, and seeking advice. By joining this Facebook community, you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, receive support, and access valuable insights from others' experiences in running LGBTQ+ businesses.
Queerest Places Slack Community
The Queerest Places Slack Community is a group dedicated to LGBTQ+ travel and hospitality professionals. This community fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities within the LGBTQ+ tourism industry. By engaging with the Queerest Places Slack Community, you can connect with LGBTQ+ professionals in the travel and hospitality sector, receive advice on marketing your business to LGBTQ+ travelers, and explore partnership opportunities.
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The Gay Village Forum
The Gay Village Forum is an online platform that aims to connect LGBTQ+ individuals and businesses within specific geographic areas, commonly referred to as “gay villages.” This forum allows entrepreneurs to share information, exchange recommendations, and collaborate on projects that benefit their local LGBTQ+ community. By engaging with The Gay Village Forum, you can connect with LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in your area, collaborate on local initiatives, and contribute to the growth and vibrancy of your community.
Diversity and Inclusion Resources
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates is a non-profit organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. They provide resources, training, and consultancy services to help businesses foster inclusive and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ employees. By accessing the resources and expertise offered by Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, you can ensure that your business promotes diversity, inclusion, and equality in the workplace.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is a leading organization focused on suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth. They provide resources and support to help businesses create inclusive environments that prioritize the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ employees. By partnering with The Trevor Project, you can access training and guidance on LGBTQ+ mental health, ensuring that your business is an empathetic and supportive space for all members of the community.
Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals
The Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals is an association that supports professionals working in LGBTQ+ student services and resource centers at colleges and universities. They offer resources, training, and networking opportunities to help businesses create inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ employees and customers. By collaborating with the Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals, you can gain insights and access best practices from professionals who specialize in LGBTQ+ inclusion within educational institutions.
