Dear Members and Supporters,
We had a completely different newsletter planned for March and then everything changed drastically over the past week. We will do our best to keep you updated on the latest information related to the Coronavirus as it relates to businesses. The Chamber is here to support our members through this difficult time.
This month has been one of the most challenging times as a country, around the world and for every one of our member businesses and corporate partners. With all of the uncertainty, one thing is for certain that We Are All In This TOGETHER. I’ve seen remarkable stories of support and helping one another among our Chamber members and the broader community. This crisis brings a whole new meaning to community, Chamber Family and that We Are All In This TOGETHER.
The Chamber will continue to work to get COVID-19 information and resources out as quickly as possible to our members to help you in the coming days and months. While there are no answers right now with so much changing on a daily basis, we are working with local, state and federal leaders to glean as much information to support you.
As a trusted partner in the success of your business, the Chamber has been closely monitoring the response to the COVID-19 virus and the impact on the business community. As a result, please see relevant updates below:
- We have coordinated with our strategic partner, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to make sure members (including non-profits) have the information about the Economic Injury Loan Program (EIDL). More SBA webinars are scheduled this week.
- We will not be producing in-person programming through the end of April (Brewing Up Business, LGBTBE Roundtable & Workshop and Biz Connect Mixer). Reducing in-person meetings is an important step in risk reduction and flattening the curve of infection rates.
- We have set-up a Facebook Member Group to further communicate and share resources.
- We created and COVID-19 Resource Page to provide information on city, state and federal resources for affected businesses.
- We signed on to two letters from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and all U.S. Affiliate LGBT Chambers to advocate regarding emergency financial relief for businesses impacted by COVID-19.
- We created a SUPPORT LOCAL page to support our members including bars, restaurants and nonprofits who have been severely impacted due to COVID-19.
- We will be conducting virtual site visits for businesses looking to obtain or renew their LGBTBE® certification.
We know that during this time our members need us now more than ever so we will continue programming by telephone and through video-conference to provide opportunities for new business, resources and skills.
In fact, as part of our collaboration the Texas LGBT Chambers of Commerce, we are working with our sister LGBT Chambers across the state to share resources, webinars and other information as well as connecting the statewide LGBTQ & Allied Business Community.
Please take some time to read through this March Newsletter where you’ll find a link to our COVID-19 Survey, information about how to support SUPPORT LOCAL and, yes, a celebration of our February events. We will celebrate again together because We Are All In This TOGETHER.
I am sharing much gratitude to our Board and Executive Administrators during this time for their commitment and dedication to the Chamber. Thank you for all you do. To our members and corporate partners, thank you for your support. We are here for you.