San Antonio LGBT Chamber encourages inclusivity grants

The San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce is currently encouraging local businesses, LGBT-owned, and supportive of the LGBT community, to apply for inclusivity promoting grants. Offering an accessible platform for those interested, applications for the grants can be found on the Chamber’s website. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, meaning businesses are encouraged to apply swiftly to maximize their chances. The chamber hopes that this initiative will foster a vibrant, inclusive business environment in San Antonio. All businesses, regardless of size or industry, are invited to participate in this initiative. Chamber’s Executive Director, Luis Vazquez, emphasizes the financial impact of the LGBT community, noting it contributes over $1.7 trillion dollars to the national economy through an estimated 1.4 million LGBT-owned businesses. Consumer Analyst Jane Keller states the estimated buying power of the LGBT community is around $971 billion, significantly influencing the economy. This initiative is part of the wider Community Impact Grant Program, launched by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, aiming to financially assist businesses advocating for inclusivity.

Inclusivity grants bolster San Antonio businesses

It’s dedicated to backing companies actively promoting diversity in their workforce and decision-making structures. Inclusivity investment in businesses is anticipated to have a positive economic impact on San Antonio, according to Vazquez. He asserts that this investment will not just encourage innovation but will benefit all community members by stimulating the city’s growth. Businesses wanting to apply for the grants, which range from $5,000 to $25,000, must be openly LGBT-owned or ally institutions and serve food. The deadline for applications is Sunday, June 16. The maximum grant any business can receive is $25,000, and the minimum is set at $5,000. Tim McDiarmid, a previous grant recipient and owner of Good Kind Hospitality Group, explains the financial assistance from the grant not only enhanced his business operations but also allowed them to reach and connect with a wider clientele, primarily from the LGBTQ community. Through the financial assistance from the grant, McDiarmid was able to foster an inclusive environment in his venue, fulfilling his ongoing commitment to supporting LGBTQ rights.