THRIVE Small Business Summit

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THRIVE Small Business Summit

Are you ready for your small business to THRIVE? Join the Chamber for the THRIVE Small Business Summit & Matchmaker, a transformative event designed to help small businesses unlock new opportunities, expand networks, and elevate their business success.

The inaugural 2024 event was a resounding success, highlighting the vital role small businesses play in our local economy. It provided a powerful platform for LGBTQ+-owned, minority-owned, and other small businesses, driving economic growth and fostering innovation. Don’t miss out on this year’s event on January 30, 2025.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, January 30th, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Hilton Garden Inn / Home 2 Suites just outside of the Texas Medical Center located at 6840 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77030

Event Overview

The THRIVE Small Business Summit is a key initiative of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, designed to empower, educate, and inspire small business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders. This dynamic day brings together a diverse audience for unparalleled opportunities to connect, learn, and share strategies for success in today’s competitive marketplace—all while celebrating the inclusive spirit of the region’s business community.

THRIVE provides the tools, resources, and inspiration to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses and connect with Chamber Impact Partners and members through B2C, B2B, and B2E Matchmaker opportunities.

Matchmaker

The Matchmaker is one of the most anticipated features of the Summit! This program facilitates one-on-one, pre-scheduled meetings between small business owners and “buyers,” including LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and supplier diversity partners. It’s a unique opportunity to create meaningful connections and explore new business opportunities. More details will be available soon!

• Impact Partner Registration: Connect certified suppliers with local Chamber Impact Partners for procurement opportunities.
• Supplier-to-Supplier Registration: Bring together certified suppliers to explore potential partnerships and collaborations.
• Small Business Registration: Connect small businesses with Chamber Impact Partner ERGs to showcase products/services that support ERG Pride Month activities and beyond.
• ERG/BRG Registration: Open to certified and non-certified businesses, this format connects suppliers with ERGs for collaboration opportunities.

Who Should Attend?

Small businesses interested in hearing from experts and panelists who will share knowledge to help grow your business.

All certification-eligible or certified businesses, including LGBTBE® Certified, LGBTQ+-owned, minority-owned, women-owned, disabled-owned, and veteran-owned businesses, are invited to participate in the Matchmaker event.

Program Highlights

We have a full day planned with outstanding expert panelists and speakers to help support you and your business.

Morning Panel – “Blueprint to THRIVE: Best Practices for Small Business Success”

Lunch Panel – “Understanding Your Why to Help Your Business THRIVE”

Breakout Sessions

• Your Business Pitch: Elevator, Value Proposition & First Impression
• Artificial Intelligence Made Simple for Small Business Owners
• Employee Issues Keeping You Up at Night?
• Artificial Intelligence Made Simple for Small Business Owners

PLUS, we’ll end the day with the Matchmaker!

Your Business Pitch (Elevator, Value Proposition & First Impression) Session Speakers

Julie Irvin Hartman, MBA, Certified Proposal Manager  &  Susan M. Repka, Co-Founder

Ready to Thrive?

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your business and forge connections that support your success. See you at THRIVE!

About the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce

The mission of the Chamber is to accelerate economic opportunity for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer + community through a strong network of business allies, innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and advanced policies that foster economic inclusion and equality.

Areas of Focus

• Business Development & Growth
• Education & Networking
• Collaboration & Partnerships
• Leadership Development
• Legislative Advocacy

Overall, the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce’s work focuses on inclusion and economic empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community. The Chamber also works to achieve equality and equity through business. It is a powerful force for advocacy and a valuable resource for our members and the LGBTQ+ community.

Learn more about the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.

More Events, Education, & Networking!

Lastly, look out for more LGBT Chamber events on B2G Victory’s Events Page.