Atlanta Pride is just around the corner! For LGBTQIA+ and allied entrepreneurs, it’s not just about celebrating identity and community—it’s also a fantastic opportunity to network, build connections, and grow your business while having an unforgettable time. The vibrant atmosphere of Pride, along with its focus on inclusivity, creates the perfect backdrop for genuine, lasting connections. Here’s how to make the most of Atlanta Pride on October 12th and 13th, both professionally and personally.

1. Show Up Authentically
At Pride, authenticity is everything. As an entrepreneur, your business reflects your values and who you are. So, whether you’re handing out business cards, engaging in conversations, or attending events, show up as your true self. People are drawn to authenticity, and the more genuine you are, the more likely you’ll create lasting, meaningful connections.
Engagement Tip: 

Wear your brand proudly! Whether that’s rocking a company-branded T-shirt or sharing your story with others, let your authenticity shine through.

2. Engage with Local LGBTQIA+ Organizations and Business Leaders
Atlanta Pride draws in an incredible diversity of local organizations, community leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs. Make a point to connect with LGBTQIA+ organizations, especially those that align with your business values or mission. Whether you’re joining a parade group, attending a networking event, or just bumping into others at a booth, it’s a great way to discover new partnerships and future collaborations.

Ways to Find Fellow Businesses:
One of the best ways to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs at Atlanta Pride is by tapping into the existing networks of LGBTQIA+ business owners. OUT Georgia Business Alliance offers an extensive **[Business Directory](https://outgeorgia.org/directory/)** that can help you find specific businesses by industry or location. Whether you’re looking for vendors in the tech industry, hospitality partners, or creative agencies, sifting through this directory ahead of Pride will help you target key contacts to meet during the festivities. Parade and Vendor Booths: Make a list of businesses you want to connect with, and look out for their presence at Pride booths or in the parade itself.

3. Leverage Social Media in Real-Time
During Pride weekend, social media buzz is at an all-time high! Share your experiences on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn using relevant hashtags like #AtlantaPride, #LGBTQBusiness, and #PrideEntrepreneur. Not only will this help elevate your business presence, but it will also create organic connections with like-minded individuals and potential customers.
It’s Showtime!: Go live! Show your followers the excitement of Pride in real-time while sharing insights about your entrepreneurial journey. Encourage people to meet you at Pride events for spontaneous networking.

4. Attend Business and Entrepreneurial Meetups
While parades and performances are the heartbeat of Pride, don’t overlook scheduled meetups that focus on LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.
These events are tailored to help you connect with others in your field and explore ways to collaborate on future business projects.
Bonus Event: If you’re in town early, OUT Georgia’s OUT at Lunch or the Business eXchange Network on the Wednesday and Thursday before PRIDE are a perfect way to kickstart your networking efforts before the official Pride festivities. It’s a relaxed yet productive environment to exchange ideas and business cards over a good meal. Check for those here.

 

 

5. Find Your Allies—Literally
Allied business owners play a crucial role in the success of LGBTQIA+ businesses. Take the opportunity to connect with businesses that may not be LGBTQ-owned but are passionate about supporting the community. Many will be present at Pride, showing solidarity and seeking meaningful partnerships.
How to Connect: Find those with a representative you can talk to directly and set some time to connect post-Pride. Look for booths and banners from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies, or join in the conversations happening at LGBTQ+ friendly businesses. By seeking out these allies, you open your network to a wider array of business opportunities and connections.

6. Make it Fun and Memorable
Networking doesn’t have to feel formal or stiff. Pride is all about joy, and that joy should be reflected in how you engage with others. Use Pride’s fun and festive setting to create light-hearted, memorable interactions. Offer to grab a drink or dance between conversations—you never know, that dance partner could be a future business collaborator!
Create a Lasting Impression: Carry something unique to hand out with your business card. A progress pin, a sticker, or a small branded item that relates to your business will leave a lasting impression and help people remember you.

7. Support Other LGBTQIA+ Businesses
One of the best ways to build strong business relationships is to support others in the community. Whether it’s purchasing from LGBTQIA+-owned vendors or promoting their work on social media, the more you support ot

hers, the more likely they’ll support you in return.
Networking Strategy: After making a purchase or engaging with another business, follow up with a note or social media shout-out. It’s a small gesture that fosters goodwill and opens doors for future collaboration.

8. Keep the Momentum Going After Pride

Your networking doesn’t stop when Pride ends. Follow up with those you connected with. Send a friendly email, schedule a coffee meet-up, or simply engage with their content on social media. The key to lasting business connections is in the follow-through, so make it a point to nurture those new relationships long after the rainbow flags come down. Consider attending our Community Honors at Atlanta City Hall on December 2nd to celebrate great work across the state. Or any of our ongoing events throughout the calendar year here.

Final Thoughts: Pride is a Celebration and a Launchpad
Atlanta Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a unique opportunity to build your brand, forge strong relationships, and discover new business opportunities within a welcoming and supportive environment. By being intentional, authentic, and open to connection, you’ll not only make lasting business connections, but you’ll also have a blast doing it. So gear up for an unforgettable weekend of Pride—one where your business can grow as much as your community connections.

Wishing you a safe and spectacular Atlanta Pride! We can’t wait to cheer on the excellent work that is only possible when we work together. 🌈🏳️‍⚧️