Local Business Spotlight: Queer Business Alliance

We are excited to kick off our first business spotlight of 2025 by showcasing an incredible LGBTQIA+ organization: the Queer Business Alliance (QBA). Founded by board members Brynna Wilson (she/they), Andy Schumacher (they), and Lou Reese (they/them), QBA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to equipping LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with the resources they need to start, grow, and thrive in business. Although QBA was in development for a few years before 2020, it officially received its 501(c)(3) status in that year.

QBA welcomes individuals from around the globe, boasting members across the United States and several international locations. Their mission is to build a supportive community where members can help one another, pairing those with more experience alongside less experienced business owners, fostering learning and growth.

The organization offers education and resources on starting and scaling a business, including workshops on topics from taxes to setting up efficient systems, as well as mentorship programs. Brynna and Andy describe QBA as an excellent stepping stone to larger organizations, such as the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. They aim to bridge the gap for small business owners, providing the connections, resources, and community necessary for growth.

QBA strives to create a space where every entrepreneur feels supported, acknowledging that owning a business can sometimes be a lonely and isolating experience. They have established an environment where individuals can share ideas and experiences with others who understand the unique challenges faced by those in the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and other minority communities. Businesses of all stages and sizes are welcome! QBA celebrates and embraces everyone in the community, ensuring that all feel a sense of belonging and support, regardless of their business type or stage of development.

QBA is actively seeking board members and volunteer opportunities. If you’re interested in becoming a board member or getting involved, please check out their contact information below!

Want to get involved with QBA? Here are four ways to participate:

1. Become a QBA Career Queer Member

   1. QBA logo file to add to your website as a proud member

   2. Access to Queer Peer Mentorship Program

   3. Monthly Members-Only Mastermind

   4. Admission to Quarterly Workshops

   5. Badass community of business & entrepreneurial support

   6. Social media shout out

   7. Speaking and presenting opportunities

      
      

2. Donate to QBA

   1. One-time, monthly, quarterly, or annual donations

   2. Support LGBTQ+ businesses

   3. Tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 organization

      
      

3. Join the Queer Ally program 

   1. Directly supports QBA’s micro-grant program

   2. Queer Ally sticker sent to your mailbox

   3. Queer Ally logo file to add to your website as a proud Ally

   4. Social media shout out

   5. Tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 organization

      
      

4. Sponsor/Become major donor 

   1. Name and logo listed on our website as a Sponsor/Major Donor

   2. Support the Queer Business Alliance on a major level

   3. Social media shout out

   4. Tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 organization

QBA Contact Information:

Email: queerbusinessalliance@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queerbusinessalliance/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/queerbusinessalliance

Website: https://queerbusinessalliance.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGYnOJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaTk6fRSTeXhD3PSxhXavMZXh0bD462sNOQ48XEl8HLtnehA4U1bxQE9QQ_aem_8lxJwEKIGIwUYhsCcUBNWA