There are two reasons why you need to become an entrepreneur. The first is that 80% of millionaires are first-generation millionaires. The second reason is more altruistic than the first. We need more queer leaders in both the private and public sectors. There’s a lot of discussion about diversity and inclusion in the workplace today, and most of those debates are being led by those who haven’t had the same experiences and challenges as those of us who are LGBTQ.
How can you become an entrepreneur?
Become a blogger
Everyone today should consider starting a blog. Blogs are replacing resumes in some circles.
Blogs can lay the foundation of entrepreneurship. You can work out your ideas and develop your brand. Write to improve your writing. Your blog will introduce clients, customers and business partners to you. Your blog will make clear who you are and how you serve.
Join the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
You’ll want to join the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce for two reasons. The first is that you’ll connect with local LGBTQ prospects and business partners with whom you may be able to partner or from whom may find other clients and business partners.
Secondly, local chambers of commerce have knowledge and resources, especially about local queer communities. Your other members will be useful resources for overcoming challenges.
Become a member of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
After you join the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, join the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). Most local LGBTQ chambers are affiliates of the NGLCC. The Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce is an NGLCC affiliate. Therefore, you’ll get a discount on a national membership.
Connect with queer groups in LinkedIn & Facebook
For some of the same reasons you join the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce and NGLCC, join LGBTQ groups on LinkedIn and Facebook. Join entrepreneur and business-related groups and groups that have members who may be good business partners or clients. Keep it a two-way relationship. Engage with and support others before trying to do or promote your business.
Apply for LGBTQ-friendly business grants
Some companies need capital-assistance to get started. If yours is a LGBTQ-owned business, it’ll be helpful to use business subsidies available to our community to start or support your business.
Do a Google search, and you’ll find numerous local, state and national-level grants. BecomingSelfMade.com, which partners with the NGLCC, shares updated queer-friendly grant information, as well.
Applying for and winning such awards isn’t easy, but because of the size of some grants, it may be worth it.
Don’t quit
Becoming an entrepreneur, queer, straight or otherwise, isn’t easy. There will be times when it’s downright hard. Don’t quit!
As motivational speaker Jim Rohn’s once said, “If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” Prepare for the struggle and don’t give up.
Now get started and join the entrepreneur-class.
