LGBTQ Business Help and Resources

Resources for LGBTQ-owned businesses

There are special funding, mentoring, and sales opportunities for LGBTQ business owners and entrepreneurs. They are a great addition to resources for all small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Funding, grants, and loans for LGBTQ business owners

These LGBT business grant and loan programs can help you get the funds your business needs.

Statewide

• Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber: Learn about business fund opportunities for chamber members.
• Realist Lab: Gain key business skills and apply for funds from this Connecticut-based venture capital firm.

Advice and mentoring

These organizations are a great place to build helpful relationships with LGBTQ business owners and representatives.

Statewide

• Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber: Members can network with each other and join discussion groups.
• Realist Lab: Receive mentoring and attend events to discuss business ideas, get advice on overcoming challenges, and explore strategies for success.

Nationwide

• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Find free and low-cost counseling and training near you.
• National LGBT Chamber of Commerce: Get matched with mentors and their corporate partners as well as LGBTQ business owners.

Training and development

Nationwide

• National LGBT Chamber of Commerce: Sign up for educational courses designed to help you grow and scale your business

Marketing and sales opportunities

Local and nationwide programs can help your LGBTQ-owned business get discovered by consumers. You can also team up with other LGBTQ-owned businesses to grow sales by offering related services.

Statewide

• Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber business directory: Add your business to this popular directory used by businesses and consumers.
• Yale LGBT-owned business directory: Join this free directory to promote your business and connect with other LGBTQ-owned businesses.

Nationwide

• U.S. SBA: Contact your local office to find out whether the 8(a) Business Development program can help you compete for government contracts.
• National LGBT Chamber of Commerce: LGBT Business Enterprise certification helps you find and get found by NGLCC corporate partners that want to spend more money with the LGBTQ business community.