MISSOULA — The Gay Business Network at the Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center was established approximately a year ago with the goal of connecting businesses that are queer and ally owned.
Jeri Barta, a board member at the Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center, explained that the network was created to offer support to businesses that may require assistance in finding it.
“The inspiration behind it was to create a welcoming space where individuals can seek support for their businesses, whether they have ideas to grow or have been operating for a while,” Barta stated.
With this vision in mind, the Gay Business Network decided to organize an official networking event for local queer and ally businesses.
Josh Stokoe, a carpentry business owner in Missoula with over 20 years of experience, expressed that networking opportunities like this are beneficial for starting and developing businesses.
“The networking event is a fantastic way to connect with diverse individuals who are pursuing unique ventures. Supporting those who are starting out is crucial because establishing a business requires a great deal of effort,” Stokoe emphasized.
The Gay Business Network intends to host additional networking events in the future, although specific dates and times have not been determined.
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