Description

Join us in at the Springhill Suites by Marriott in Bellingham for a free day of training and connection as we discuss entrepreneurial support, inclusive marketing (products, services and tourism), network with our neighbors, and participate in workplace LGBTQ+ Inclusion Training. All are welcome, whether from Whatcom County or the surrounding region, and all businesses – LGBTQ+ and allies – are warmly invited. 

Thank you to our venue host Springhill Suites by Marriott

Schedule: 

1pm - 1:15pm - Springhill Suites by Marriott

Attendee arrival with snacks provided 

1:15- 2:45pm - Springhill Suites by Marriott

LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Training 

A vibrant economy is strengthened through the full participation of diverse local communities. Every business and organization runs a little differently with unique specialties, strengths, and weaknesses. This training will help Whatcom County organizations thrive as LGBTQ+ inclusive brands and environments. Whether it's ensuring your workplace policies are inclusive of all genders and relationships, increasing LGBTQ+ community awareness in the workplace, or learning to better connect with the LGBTQ+ community, we are here to help you create an inclusive company culture. Facilitated by River Teslar (she/her), GSBA Business Training Specialist 

3:00-4:30 pm- Springhill Suites by Marriott

LGBTQ+ Roundtable Discussion

This LGBTQ+ business roundtable welcomes community leaders, small business owners, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs from across Whatcom County to discuss issues affecting their business or industry, all through a lens of inclusivity and equity. Additionally, we will chat on marketing, including digital and social media trends for 2023 as well as ways to communicate effectively as to and for the LGBTQ+ community, with the hopes of welcoming local and tourism dollars to Whatcom County. GSBA will offer opportunities and available resources to business owners in attendance from Washington state’s LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce. Facilitated by Ilona Lohrey (she/her), GSBA President & CEO, and Chris Marcacci (he/him) Director of Marketing & Communications 

4:30pm-6:00PM - Springhill Suites by Marriott

Networking Event

Join us for a chance to mix-and-mingle with local leaders, small business owners, and community members at the end of our day-long event. Get to know your Whatcom County chambers and partners making this event happen, including GSBA - Washington's LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce. A great opportunity to share with folks all you learned today. 

Presented in Partnership with: