As the Board Chair of the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, I am thrilled to present our 2023 Impact Report, celebrating a remarkable year of growth, advocacy, and collaboration.
Membership Growth: Our community has grown stronger and more diverse, with over 100 new members in the past year. This surge signifies the trust and confidence our members place in the Chamber to represent and support their interests.
Advocacy Success: Our relentless advocacy efforts have yielded substantial results. We successfully lobbied for inclusive policies, fostering a more equitable business environment. The Chamber’s voice has been heard in legislative chambers, contributing to positive changes that benefit our members and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
Collaboration with Minority Chambers: Embracing the power of unity, we forged impactful partnerships with other minority chambers through our DECA initiative. This collaborative spirit has enabled us to amplify our collective voices, advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities across diverse business sectors.
Social Connection: Our annual gala exceeded all expectations, serving not only as a glamorous celebration of our community but also as a crucial fundraiser for future initiatives. The generous support from sponsors and attendees demonstrates the depth of commitment to our shared vision of economic empowerment and equality. The resounding success of the Pride in Local Music Festival showcased our commitment to cultural inclusivity and community engagement. By celebrating diversity through music, we not only created a joyous event but also strengthened our ties with the broader Austin community. The Chamber also held numerous member Ribbon Cuttings, luncheons, happy hours, and other social events providing networking opportunities for our community.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the opportunities to continue making a positive impact. Together, we will build on this momentum, ensuring the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce remains a driving force for progress, prosperity, and unity.
Gary Schumann
2023 Austin LGBT Chamber Board Chair
