LGBTQ+ Biz Boot Camp

Founded in 2019, the LGBT Business Foundation of Illinois introduced our LGBTQ+ Biz Boot Camp program. We are proud of the impact this program has made within the LGBTQ+ community, having awarded 60+ members with this incredible opportunity. The success of our Boot Camp curriculum is possible thanks to our valued and dedicated partners at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Those accepted into the program will leave fully equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to further advance their careers and executive presence. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with Chamber affiliated mentors and will leave the program with a complete business plan and pitch deck.

Over the course of 8 weeks, participants will be expected to attend a 4-hour class once a week on Saturdays, facilitated by our seasoned and savvy Business Advisor and Expert, Kristina Wynne, MPH, Owner of The Wynners Club. Upon completion of our Biz Boot Camp program, and as official new members of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, participants will compete in our LGBTQ+ Biz Boot Camp OUT-Pitch Competition for a chance to win:

  • First place winner of our OUT-Pitch Competition will be awarded a $2,500 small business grant, courtesy of JP Morgan Chase & Co.
  • The runner-up will receive a $1,000 small business grant from the LGBT Business Foundation of Illinois.

Who should apply?

  • Any entrepreneur who has their own business that has been in operation for at least one year, and who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
  • Membership with the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois is not required.
  • Deadline to apply is Sunday, January 21, 2024.

Program Timeline:

  • This program’s cohorts started Saturday, February 10, 2024. Stayed tuned to lgbtcc.com for future offerings.
  • The first class will take place on Saturday, February 10, 2024, and will run every Saturday until Saturday, March 30, 2024.
  • Participants competing in the OUT-Pitch Competition will have 2 weeks thereafter to prepare their presentation.
  • OUT-Pitch Competition event will take place April 17, 2024. Register to attend via our Events Page.

 

THIS PROGRAM COULD NOT TAKE PLACE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF:

Molson Coors
CTA
City of Chicago
The Wynnes Club