The North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce launched its newest program on May 30th at Bar Dryce in Fort Worth. Over fifty people attended the announcement of the Queer Professionals Network. May's QPN also featured Sloan Beauty Bar, Trinity Pride, Pangea Selections, and Aubrey's Tacos & Tortas. 

Objective:

The Queer Professionals Network (QPN) connects the LGBTQ business community, supports the growth of small businesses, and assists individuals in reaching  their career goals. QPN is a hyper-local program designed to serve the unique needs of LGBTQIA+  individuals in a specific geographic area.

The year-round program consists of:

Regular networking events

Professional development programs

Small business programs

Leadership opportunities

The Chamber’s first Queer Professionals Network will serve the Fort Worth area.

Jonah Murray (he/they) and Alli Carpenter (she/her) will co-chair Queer Professionals Network Fort Worth. "I am ecstatic about adding Queer Professionals Network," said Lisa Howe (she/her), Vice President of Membership & Programs at the North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce. "This program expands the Chamber's footprint and demographics, and I am super excited to be working with Jonah and Alli. They are active and trusted young leaders in Fort Worth, and they are the perfect team to grow this program and help the Chamber better serve their community." QPN Fort Worth program overview:

Meetings:  Last Thursday of the month at Hotel Dryce

Program: Spotlights a different LGBTQIA+ community organization each month

• Welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and career levels in a supportive and inclusive setting
• Features a queer-owned food vendor whenever possible

Future QPN Fort Worth activities may include workforce development (assisting individuals with job interview skills, resume writing, Linked in, etc.), entrepreneur programming, and business education & development topics such as accessing and building capital, LGBT, minority, and woman certification, and supplier diversity initiatives.