Chambers push LGBTQ+ businesses forward in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh
Writer: Melis Turku Topa
June 2025 — LGBTQ+ enterprises bring vibrancy, innovation, and economic strength to the United States. In Pennsylvania, chambers of commerce in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are helping accelerate that growth through advocacy and inclusive business programming.
LGBTQ+ business owners span sectors from hospitality and tech to the arts and professional services, adding to local economies and enriching community identity. Nationally, more than 1.4 million LGBTQ-owned businesses contribute an estimated $1.7 trillion annually, according to a report by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and ASU’s Edson Institute. Research showed these businesses are even outperforming others in job creation and innovation. LGBTQ+ founders produce 36% more jobs, file 114% more patents, and achieve 44% more company exits, all while raising 16% less funding than their peers, as cited by community and entrepreneurial programming organization StartOut.
In Pennsylvania, local policy is catching up to this economic force. Pittsburgh’s 2021 move to include NGLCC-certified LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) in municipal contracting marked a key milestone, channeling this momentum into job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth. But many LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs still face structural barriers, including limited funding, visibility, and access to public and private sector opportunities.
Regional organizations have stepped in to bridge that gap.
In Philadelphia, the Independence Business Alliance (IBA), founded in 2007 by five local leaders, has grown into a nearly 300-member chamber that champions LGBTQ+ businesses across Greater Philadelphia. As an NGLCC affiliate, the IBA offers official LGBTBE certification, helping firms access supplier diversity networks and new contracting pathways.
“Our mission remains unchanged: to create opportunities, provide resources, and expand access for LGBTQ+ businesses, workers, and allies, both by building new alliances and strengthening existing ones.,” IBA CEO Zach Wilcha told Invest:.
“Lately, we’ve concentrated on two key priorities. First, addressing the effects of political instability on our communities, while helping members find a clear path forward. Second, supporting small businesses as they balance community needs with business realities during ongoing market uncertainty, so they not only survive but thrive,” Wilcha noted.
IBA’s initiatives include the TransWork Program, which connects more than 1,400 trans and nonbinary job seekers with inclusive employers, and the PNC LGBTQ+ Business Award & Scholarships, which spotlight emerging entrepreneurs. The group also fosters inclusive hiring and procurement by coordinating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) across major corporations.
Across the state, Three Rivers Business Alliance (3RBA) is the LGBTQIA+ chamber for Pittsburgh and 13 surrounding counties. The group offers LGBTBE certification support, marketing assistance, and programming like PRIDE In Business. Its foundation provides mentorship, training, and professional development, while award programs recognize standout creators in fields like hospitality and the arts.
3RBA is also helping local LGBTQ+ businesses tap into a rare economic opportunity: Pittsburgh’s hosting of the 2026 NFL Draft. As a member of the host committee, Executive Director Jordan Botta told Invest: he’s hopeful the event will have a long-term economic impact on the region, instead of just being a flash in the pan.
For the first time, the NFL Draft’s supplier diversity program is accepting LGBTBE-certified vendors. Thanks to 3RBA’s efforts, many local businesses have now secured certification, which qualifies them to bid directly on event contracts.
Beyond Pittsburgh and Philly, regional networks like the Keystone Business Alliance (KBA) and Montgomery County LGBT Business Council (MoCo LGBTBC) are delivering support at the grassroots level. KBA, which serves eight counties in central PA, has launched grant programs, including one backed by the Grubhub Community Fund offering $5,000 to $25,000 to LGBTQ+ and allied businesses. The chamber also waives certification fees, provides training, and organizes supplier networking events.
In Eastern Pennsylvania, MoCo LGBTBC’s Business Gateway program connects entrepreneurs with the SBA, state Small Business Development Centers, and Montgomery County’s LGBTQIA+ Affairs Commission, helping them secure certification, mentorship, and procurement access.
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