Chamber Connection
January 2022
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2022 marks the beginning of our Chamber’s fifth year of operations! It’s humbling to reflect on all we’ve accomplished in such a short time — not to mention weathering a global pandemic! Most gratifying to me has been the forged bonds and growing partnerships among us all as we strive together for a better economic future for our community.
There is so much that our Chamber has in store this year, all with the aim of fortifying our member businesses and working for inclusion and equity in the corporate sector with our partners. We are here to serve you, so please never hesitate to reach out to me directly or to our Chamber’s amazing team. There is no justice until there is financial justice, and that is what we are here to do!
Proudly forward,
Grace R. Moreno
Executive Director
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WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS LAUNCH
The Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce now has an official presence in Western Massachusetts! Our Chamber has been making a concentrated effort to serve LGBTQ+ small businesses in the western half of the state, and last month, Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle announced the expansion and our collaboration with her city. At the press conference held at the Keystone Mill in Easthampton, leaders from the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts and Lawyers for Civil Rights also announced their plans for future growth of their operations into Western Massachusetts. |
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ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING
We were blown away by the huge turnout for our Annual Member Meeting last week! We hope those of you who were able to attend enjoyed the opportunity to learn what our Chamber has in store for 2022 and connect with other members. It was wonderful to gather as a group, albeit in the virtual realm!
If you couldn’t join us this time, please check your inbox for a follow up communication from Executive Director Grace Moreno. The email includes links to a recording of the meeting as well as a survey we want ALL members to complete!
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GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
EMPOWER DIGITAL
Two major changes to MGCC’s Empower Digital Grant now make it available to businesses that did not previously qualify:
- MGCC may now cover up to $5,000 in project costs without the need for a 20% investment from the business receiving funds.
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A storefront is no longer necessary to qualify for this grant, meaning home-based businesses can apply.
As part of this opportunity, up to $5,000 may be given to cover the development of digital capabilities (digital-based operations, e-commerce solutions, digital marketing, social media engagement, etc.). The Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce will act as your sponsor if you decide to apply for this grant. To be eligible, businesses must:
- be nominated by our Chamber or another SBTA;
- be based in Massachusetts and employ between 1–20 FTEs;
- not exceed $2,500,000 in annual revenue, and;
- have been in operation for at least one year.
FUTURES FUND
Our friends at Berkshire Bank are now making the Futures Fund more widely available, with the $300,000 revenue requirement no longer in effect. Smaller businesses are invited to apply. This line of credit is available only to Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Black Economic Council of Massachusetts members, and it is a low-barrier product with a great interest rate. We urge anyone exploring the possibility of a loan/line of credit to find out more.
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NEW PARTNERSHIPS
NEI & HOMESITE
This month we welcome two new corporate partners — NEI General Contracting and Homesite Insurance. We are thrilled by the breadth and caliber of our partner organizations, and exceptionally grateful to them for supporting our work and mission! |
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
ROBBIE SAMUELS LLC
Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur & Certified LGBT Business Enterprise
Recognized networking expert by Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Inc, and industry expert in the field of digital event design by JDC Events, Robbie is the author of Small List, Big Results: Launch a Successful Offer No Matter the Size of Your Email List and Croissants vs. Bagels: Strategic, Effective, and Inclusive Networking at Conferences. He is also a keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, Harvard Business Review contributor, and host of the On the Schmooze podcast.
Struggling to Sell? Build Your Audience Before Creating An Offer
Robbie shows entrepreneurs how to discover likely prospects who already know, like, and trust them — and how to co-create an irresistible offer. FREE RESOURCE The Big Results Toolkit will help you wake up your network at robbiesamuels.com/masslgbtcc
Online Events with Less Stress and Greater Participant Engagement
Virtual event design consultant, executive Zoom producer, and virtual emcee providing purpose first event design and strategy, training for virtual presenters, and online facilitation certification. FREE RESOURCE 30+ Zoom tutorial videos at robbiesamuels.com/videos
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DOWNTON VALLEY
Intimate, Contemporary Getaway for Women
Downton Valley™ is an inn “For Women, By Women” located in Northampton, Massachusetts, a city dubbed “Lesbianville, USA” in the 90s. Downton Valley is a remarkable haven for all women wanting to vacation and be their authentic selves!
Amenities
- Spectacular panoramic views and breathtaking sunrises
- Continental breakfast included; complimentary afternoon wine and cheese
- Heated outdoor salt water pool (seasonal); outdoor jacuzzi and shower; indoor exercise pool
- Hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails
- Free WiFi
Innkeepers Lisa Lippiello, partner at Olin Lippiello LLP, and Bonnie Sachs, a gifted local artist, had the vision of creating Downton Valley, a luxurious getaway for adult women in the heart of the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. The inn’s lavish amenities and beautiful interior are designed with opulence and comfort in mind.
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NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
Welcome to the small businesses that have joined us as members since our last newsletter. We are excited to witness our rapidly growing membership!
Kevin Ready
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Corporate Partners Now Hiring! |
Have you checked our Job Board lately? Our corporate partners are posting positions that could be perfect for you!
Positions by partner name:
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Join Fenway Health's Board
Apply before March 1, 2022
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Fenway Health is looking for dedicated community leaders who will represent the heart and soul of the organization, outreach to other “connectors” who will bring resources to fulfill their mission, change-makers who will help them break down barriers, and forward-thinkers who will guide the future. They are actively seeking individuals who are committed to Fenway Health and bring the richly diverse backgrounds and perspectives that reflects their inclusive patient population. |
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