Cultivate 100,000
SGL/LGBTQIA+ Business Owners in the USA
Empowering Queer Entrepreneurs to Lead, Innovate, and Thrive in Every Corner of America.
Your Journey, Our Support
Pride in Progress is dedicated to elevating and empowering SGL/LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. We’re here to provide the resources, community, and opportunities you need to thrive. Together, we’ll build businesses that shape a more inclusive and vibrant economy.
A Community of Strength and Pride
In a world where being yourself is the greatest act of courage, we celebrate and support the dreams of queer business owners. By fostering a community rooted in connection and resilience, we’re laying the foundation for a future where every SGL/LGBTQIA+ entrepreneur can shine.
Dare to Dream, Grow, and Lead
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to cultivate and support 250,000 SGL/LGBTQIA+ business owners. At Pride in Progress, we believe that when we uplift one another, we uplift the world. Let’s turn dreams into businesses and passions into legacies.
LET'S DRIVE CHANGE
Our Ask
Move forward with Partner Agreement
Set date for "coming soon" press release
Fund the initiative
LET'S DRIVE CHANGE
Igniting Opportunities, Building Legacies
At Pride in Progress, we believe that every LGBTQIA+ entrepreneur has the power to reshape their community and redefine success. Our mission is to cultivate 250,000 queer-owned businesses across the United States, each a testament to the courage, creativity, and resilience of our community.
We provide a platform where self-expression meets business innovation, offering resources, mentorship, and a supportive network. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your venture to the next level, we’re here to walk beside you on your journey.
Your Pride, Our Progress
Vision Statement
The Pride in Progress Initiative is meant to serve the Same Gender Loving (SGL) and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual plus (LGBTQIA+) community in order for them to create, grow and scale their businesses across the United States of America.
Mission Statement
Our mission at Pride in Progress is to uplift and support SGL/LGBTQIA+ business owners and entrepreneurs across generations through innovative initiatives, essential resources, and passionate advocacy. We are committed to creating a unified ecosystem that celebrates and amplifies the talents, creativity, and contributions of the queer community, driving both economic prosperity and social unity for all.
Defined Success
From the 13,900,000 individuals in the United States that self identify as SGL/LGBTQIA+ (Williams Institute), our desire is to complete the following:
50,000 new SGL/LGBTQIA+ businesses created in the United States within two years of our formation
200,000 new businesses created specifically by SGL/LGBTQIA+ people of of color
$10,000,000 in revenue accrued
100 events (virtual & in-person) to facilitate community building and networking
100 individuals identified for the Pride in Progress Advocacy Group to provide training, content and support
100,000 hours of professional development virtual training attained
Support pre-existing endeavors such as Trans Tech
The Leadership
Richard E. Pelzer II
Richard E. Pelzer brings a wealth of experience in business development and community engagement. As a co-founder of Pride in Progress, Richard is committed to creating pathways for SGL/LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs to succeed and flourish. With a background in fostering business growth and innovation, Richard’s vision is to build a nationwide network of queer-owned businesses that celebrates diversity and drives meaningful change.
Asa Leveaux
Known as the Icon Architect, Asa Leveaux is an entrepreneur, author, and advocate for SGL/LGBTQIA+ business empowerment. With a passion for helping others realize their potential, Asa co-founded Pride in Progress to provide queer entrepreneurs with the tools, community, and support needed to create lasting impact. Asa's dedication to uplifting marginalized voices is at the heart of his mission to cultivate a thriving and inclusive business landscape.
Cultivating the Goal
Current Population Breakdown
About 7.9% of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+, and they are underrepresented among the 10-12% of Americans who are entrepreneurs(Census.gov)(Census.gov).
Assuming similar entrepreneurial rates, LGBTQ+ business owners are likely less than their proportional share based on population numbers.
Total Business Owners Needed for Parity:
With cisgender heterosexual individuals constituting about 90-95% of the population, their entrepreneurial representation is currently higher.
Increasing LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs by 100,000 would move closer to proportional representation, especially given that the LGBTQ+ population could support 1 million businesses to match their population ratio.
Impact of Adding 100,000 Business Owners:
By reaching 100,000 LGBTQ+ business owners, the representation will approach the proportional benchmark, meaning LGBTQ+ individuals would have a fairer share of entrepreneurial presence.
The Plan of Action
Business Directory
To compile a comprehensive, nationwide directory of queer-owned businesses, serving as a key resource for consumers, other businesses, and investors looking to support or collaborate with LGBTQ+ enterprises.
PiP Advocacy Group
To assemble a diverse group of industry experts who will provide mentorship, guidance, and advocacy to support the growth and success of queer-owned businesses.
PiP Portal
To develop an online platform where queer business owners can access a comprehensive range of training resources and business tools.
Business Accreditation
To establish a recognized standard that authenticates businesses, ensuring they meet specific criteria related to ethics, inclusivity, and operational excellence.
Virtual Magazine
To develop an online platform where queer business owners can access a comprehensive range of training resources and business tools.
Business & Tech Expo
To host a 2-day event in Miami as the culmination of the Pride in Progress initiative, featuring networking opportunities, pitch competitions, workshops, and entertainment.
Ambassador Program
To enlist queer celebrities and influencers as ambassadors to amplify the visibility and impact of the Pride in Progress initiative.
PiP Mentors
To foster personal and professional development by connecting individuals with more experienced mentors who can offer guidance, support, and knowledge
LET'S DRIVE CHANGE
Empowering a New Wave of Queer Entrepreneurs
Pride in Progress is more than a movement; it’s a mission to transform the business landscape by championing LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. We are dedicated to supporting 250,000 SGL and queer business owners as they pursue their dreams, breaking barriers and rewriting narratives in every corner of the nation.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Extensive Network and Partnerships: Pride in Progress, similar to NGLCC, can leverage a wide network of corporate partners dedicated to LGBTQ+ business inclusivity. NGLCC, for instance, has over 360 corporate and government partners actively seeking LGBTQ+ suppliers, which can foster valuable relationships and open business opportunities for Pride in Progress participants.
Focused Mission and Niche: The mission to support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs is well-defined and aligned with societal trends toward diversity and inclusion. Organizations like Small Business Majority emphasize the importance of underserved communities, which is highly relevant to Pride in Progress’s mission.
Resource Availability: Organizations like the NGLCC offer certification, mentorship, and business development resources that enhance LGBTQ+ business longevity. Pride in Progress could similarly offer structured support, drawing from these models to benefit participants with tools for growth and sustainability.
Strong Demand: The LGBTQ+ community has significant buying power and brand loyalty towards inclusive companies, as highlighted by NGLCC’s data showing over $917 billion in annual spending. This creates a supportive market base for LGBTQ+ businesses cultivated by Pride in Progress.
Weaknesses
Potential Funding Challenges: Pride in Progress may face funding issues, as similar programs often rely on both corporate and government backing. Small Business Majority emphasizes that access to capital is a recurring problem for small businesses, including LGBTQ+ enterprises.
Limited Awareness and Reach: As a relatively new initiative, Pride in Progress may struggle initially with brand recognition. Establishing a presence similar to the NGLCC’s will take time and resources, particularly in regions with lower LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Scalability Concerns: The tour aspect of Pride in Progress is ambitious but may face logistical challenges. With events across multiple cities, ensuring consistent engagement and support in every location could be difficult.
Dependence on External Support and Sponsorship: Many LGBTQ+ advocacy programs and initiatives rely heavily on sponsorship from corporations and grants from government bodies. Economic downturns or shifts in corporate priorities might result in reduced funding, which could challenge the initiative’s sustainability over time
Potential Resistance in Certain Regions: While there is growing support for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, certain areas in the U.S. may still have significant resistance to LGBTQ+ initiatives. This could affect event attendance and participation in those regions, as well as limit the effectiveness of outreach efforts in certain cities where LGBTQ+ rights are less widely supported
Opportunities
Expanding Corporate Diversity Initiatives: Many corporations are actively looking to diversify their supply chains with LGBTQ+ businesses. Organizations like NGLCC support this through supplier diversity programs, which Pride in Progress could leverage to create partnerships and increase visibility for participants.
Growing LGBTQ+ Consumer Market: There is an increasing trend of LGBTQ+ consumers supporting LGBTQ-owned businesses. Small Business Majority notes the positive impact of inclusivity on brand perception, which Pride in Progress can capitalize on by promoting participant businesses as LGBTQ-owned and operated.
Rising Public Support for Inclusion: In light of various legislative actions and societal discussions, there is a growing demand for inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Pride in Progress can align with this by showcasing itself as a leader in promoting LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship across the U.S.
Threats
Political and Legislative Risks: As seen with challenges discussed at NGLCC’s conferences, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and political attitudes can pose a threat to programs like Pride in Progress, particularly in states with less inclusive environments. This may affect the tour's success in certain regions.
Market Competition: As more organizations focus on supporting LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, Pride in Progress will face competition from established bodies like NGLCC, which already offers similar resources and networks. Differentiating from these organizations will be key.
Economic Instability: The broader economic environment, including inflation and potential recessions, could impact funding, sponsorship, and small business survival rates. Small Business Majority reports that economic downturns disproportionately affect minority-owned businesses, including LGBTQ+ enterprises, which could challenge Pride in Progress’s sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clarity is key
Is this initiative only for a particular group within the LGBTQIA+ community?
Not at all. With that said, we understand that groups within the community will benefit from more tailored programming.
Who are the desired partners of Pride in Progress?
Small Business Administration (SBA)
National Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
National Women Business Centers (WBCs)
SCORE
Veteran Business Opportunity Centers (VBOCs)
Center for Black Equity
National Urban League
Does Pride in Progress provide funding for businesses?
No, not directly.
How does Pride in Progress support diversity and inclusion?
The initiative is committed to fostering diversity by supporting business owners from various backgrounds within the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on people of color. This commitment is reflected in all aspects of the program, from mentorship to certification.
What is the Queer Venture Accreditation (QVA) program?
The QVA program is designed to certify and authenticate queer-owned businesses, helping them gain credibility, visibility, and access to exclusive opportunities, including potential contracts with corporations seeking diverse suppliers.
What sources did the team use to find the various statistics?
US Census Bureau
Williams Institute
National LGBT Chamber of Commerce
What action steps have the Pride in Progress leadership created to date?
Bought dedicated domain
Created social media accounts to include: Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Threads
Allocated dedicated branded email
Confirmed over 40 queer business experts to train & develop SGL/LGBTQIA+ business owners
Received a media partner in Swerv Magazine
Confirmed a media director in Kevin E. Taylor
Confirmed 5 ambassadors
Identified the learning management system (LMS) that will be used for the Pride in Progress (PiP) Portal
Seeking office space in Harlem, NY
Confirmed locations for 16-city tour