Virtual Entrepreneur

The Gay Entrepreneur’s Toolkit: 100 Networking Resources, Guides, And Links

September 6th, 2007 | Author: MrsMoney

Resources for the LGBT community at large are plentiful, but it’s often difficult for gay entrepreneurs to find helpful business resources. There are, however, a number of networking groups, tools, and other resources available if you know where to look. These are 100 of the best.

Networking and Organizations

Get connected with other gay businesspeople through these events, organizations, and other networking resources.

National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: Get certified with this organization for better exposure, events, and networking opportunities.
Gay and Lesbian Business Association of B.C.: Gay businesspeople in British Columbia can join this group for community resources, a red dress ball, and networking groups.
Gay Business World: On Gay Business World, you can connect with others, find advice, learn about events, and even post a job listing.
Gay Business Association: This gay business association boasts an extensive database, a monthly newsletter, and networking events.
Out & Equal: The Out and Equal advocates support gays in all types of business.
Gayellow Pages: Whether you’re looking for a vendor or would like to advertise your business, check out the Gayellow Pages.
Golden Gate Business Association (GGBA): The GGBA was the first LGBT chamber of commerce, and for 30 years has supported LGBT businesses and those that support them. Check them out for a great directory, networking, resources, and expos.

Gay Directory: Gay.com’s directory is full of free listings for businesses and events. You should be there, too.
GayFranchise: Are you looking for a business to start? This is a good resource to check out.
GayCanada: Check out this directory for gay businesses, services, and resources in Canada.
International Gay Entrepreneurs Association: Join this group to connect with gay entrepreneurs all over the world.
Genius: This Netherlands association of gay professionals supports a network of gay businesses.
The National Gay Franchise Expo: Whether you’re looking for a franchise to invest in or want to sell your own, this event in West Hollywood is a great place to be.
Out Professionals: This network for gay and lesbian professionals offers events, news, and more.
Greater San Diego Business Association: This Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce in San Diego supports gay businesses through networking opportunities and social activities.
Lesbian and Gay Veterinary Medical Association: LGBT vets can join this professional organization for support, information, and networking with other gay vets.
Sydney Gay & Lesbian Business Association: Aussie LGBT entrepreneurs can join this organization for community connection and networking.
US Gay/Lesbian Business Groups: Check out this list for a number of local gay chambers of commerce and business associations.
LambdaBusiness: Connect with other gay and lesbian owned businesses through this directory.
Out and Equal Workplace Summit: Find out how you can contribute to a diversified workplace at this gathering of gay business leaders and advocates.
NetworkQ: This network is for gays and lesbians in business school and beyond.
Queer Arts Resource: Gay artists should check out the Queer Arts Resource for help getting into an exhibition.
Adventure Out Women: This website provides a networking portal for professional women, lesbian or otherwise.
Lesbian Business: Find lesbian owned and operated businesses through this site.
Gay Business Association: Gay entrepreneurs in the UK should join this trade association that represents gay and lesbian businesses.