February 24, 2016
Washington, D.C. – The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), the business voice of the LGBT community, is proud to announce the formation of the latest affiliate chamber in the NGLCC national network: The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce. The Houston affiliate will provide hyper-local programming and networking opportunities for the region’s LGBT business owners, as well as connect Houston area LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) companies to NGLCC national business certification. The opening of the Houston affiliate amplifies ongoing LGBT business progress in the area, including the NGLCC & SBA LGBT Business Builder program coming to Houston in 2016 and inclusion of Certified LGBTBEs during Super Bowl 51 in 2017.
“We are excited about the launch of the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce (GHLGBTCC) and the opportunity to engage in strategic work to support the LGBT business community and its allies. Houston is a strong, pro-business city and through our work, we will ensure that LGBT businesses are recognized as a key part of our vibrant business community,” says Tammi Wallace, Co-Chair, Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce Steering Committee. “With the launch of the GHLGBTCC, we take the first step to ensure that we have an equal seat at the table to maximize business contracting and procurement opportunities for LGBT-owned businesses.”
Houston now joins The San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce, North Texas GLBT Chamber of Commerce, and Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce to promote local businesses and encourage LGBT entrepreneurship in these communities. NGLCC national headquarters regularly coordinates messaging and engagement opportunities for local affiliate business leaders to demonstrate the business case for equality and inclusion in their cities and state. LGBT business owners will continue to innovate industries, create jobs, and contribute greatly to the GDP of Houston—and across the nation.
“Achieving economic parity for the greater Houston LGBT business community will not only be a primary driver of our work but will support the mantra widely recognized for our great city: it doesn’t matter where you come from or where you’ve been as long as you are willing to roll up your sleeves, work hard, and contribute. We look forward to showcasing the exceptional talent pool of LGBT-owned businesses that are the best of the best in the region,” added Gary Wood, Co-Chair, Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce Steering Committee.
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About NGLCC
The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the business voice of the LGBT community and is the largest global not-for-profit advocacy organization specifically dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBT people. NGLCC is the exclusive certification body for LGBT-owned businesses. www.nglcc.org
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jonathan D. Lovitz
Vice President for External Affairs, NGLCC
954.695.5896
