The Chicago Area Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce ( CAGLCC ) announced today that it has formed a business-mentoring collaboration with SCORE Chicago, to bring the extensive experience represented by SCORE Chicago's mentors to CAGLCC's membership at large. This is the first such partnership in the nation between any SCORE chapter and an LGBT business-focused organization. SCORE Chicago partners with such businesses as PayPal, Constant Contact, 1871 Incubator, MB Financial, Autism Speaks, and Crain's Chicago, among many others.
Beginning in early 2016, SCORE Chicago will have a mentor on-site weekly at the CAGLCC's offices in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood for mentoring sessions.
CAGLCC's Executive Director Gerardo Rodriguez says that the partnership is another step in its effort toward ensuring a level playing field for LGBT businesses. "SCORE Chicago's mentors will be a tremendous asset to our membership," Rodriguez says.
Bill Innes, SCORE Chicago's Chairperson says "SCORE Chicago recognizes the opportunities that the LGBT community offers to the small business world. SCORE mentors provide free, lifetime counseling and guidance to all who come and look forward to the small business professionals who seek enhancements to their knowledge and operations."
ABOUT THE CHICAGO AREA GAY AND LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2016, The Chicago Area Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce's mission is to promote economic opportunities for the LGBT community by being an advocate and resource for all member businesses that encourage equality.