Pride in Small Business: A Community Conversation on LGBTQIA+ Entrepreneurship in East Central Illinois

Join the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for an evening conversation celebrating LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurship and community in East Central Illinois.

This Pride Month event is designed to feel less like a formal panel and more like an honest community conversation—a chance to hear real stories about business ownership, creating affirming spaces, navigating challenges, and building community locally.

Whether you’re a current business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, creative professional, student, or ally, all are welcome to attend. The evening will feature a relaxed moderated discussion followed by informal networking and conversation.