As communities around the world continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, OUT Georgia Business Alliance is pivoting to better serve LGBTQ+ businesses and professionals across Georgia.
During the recent April Board meeting, OUT Georgia’s leadership initiated several strategic moves to shift all remaining 2020 programming to virtual and welcome all Members, regardless of financial situation, to the state’s only LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce.
“Our businesses, nonprofits, corporations, and professionals are focused on responsibly and safely navigating COVID-19 for their organizations and coming out stronger for the communities and people of Georgia,” said Chris Lugo, Executive Director. “By shifting our chamber’s stream of programming and events to virtual, we aim to set a clear expectation for our Membership while continuing to deliver high-quality business development programming, advocacy, and networking.”
OUT Georgia’s major events, including the LGBTQ+ Business Summit & Expo and the popular Community Awards Dinner, will be virtual for 2020, with plans to reintroduce these live major events in 2021.
The chamber’s ongoing stream of networking and business development programming, like our popular Business Builder Lunch and Fourth Friday networking series, will shift to virtual for 2020, with a plan to reintroduce these smaller physical events once it is safe and appropriate.
“In addition to our programming shift, we are sending a clear message to Georgia’s LGBTQ+ and allied business community that you are welcome here at the OUT Georgia Business Alliance, regardless of your financial situation,” Lugo added.
New and renewing Members now have monthly and quarterly dues payment options to accommodate cash flow constraints for those able to pay. If any current or potential Member is having difficulty due to COVID-19, simply reach out to info@outgeorgia.org to discuss deferment options.
We’re here Georgia’s LGBTQ+ and allied business community, now more than ever. Stay up-to-date on news from the OUT Georgia Business Alliance at outgeorgia.org and COVID-19 Emergency Relief Resources at outgeorgia.org/covid19.
About OUT Georgia Business Alliance
OUT Georgia Business Alliance proudly serves as Georgia’s only LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce.
Since 1994, OUT Georgia Business Alliance (formerly the Atlanta Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce) has served the LGBTQ+ and Allied business community by advocating for the most inclusive and equitable business environment; providing support and resources to fuel economic growth; and driving meaningful community connections and impact across the State of Georgia.
OUT Georgia Business Alliance is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., and is a proud affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact us at OUTGeorgia.org or info@OUTGeorgia.org.