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Overview
The Economic Development Department of the LGBT Center is a resource for the small business community, serving as a founding member of the San Francisco Economic Development Alliance,
and working collaboratively in that community to help expand economic opportunities for LGBT people, businesses and communities in need. We are creating jobs for our community by helping LGBT entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. To that end, we offer a variety of programs including one-on-one counseling, group workshops, small business seminars, mentorship matching and assistance with accessing capital.
One-On-One
Business Technical Assistance
It is our goal to serve as the nexus for LGBT entrepreneurs seeking access to the full spectrum of business assistance services. We are geared to help businesses throughout the spectrum of their business development lifecycle; from pre-startup to existing and expanding businesses. These 1-hour consultations consist of a general intake process, a needs assessment and the development of an action plan. These consultations may result in the scheduling of future consultations with our business generalist, a connection to a mentor or a connection to other small business resources. To schedule a consultation, please contact Tony Moraga, Manager of Small Business Services at tonym@sfcenter.org or by phone at (415) 865-5645.
Workshops
Periodic workshops are held at the LGBT Center for entrepreneurs, so please review the Center’s calendar for any upcoming events. The discussion topics that have been presented at the Center include, but are not limited to, business formation, access to capital, business management, accounting, record keeping, taxes, marketing, sales, pricing, branding, public relations, advertising and general business development. Most recently, the Center hosted a panel discussion entitled “Is Entrepreneurship Right For You?” which featured graduates from the Center’s Business Plan Loan Factory, loan recipients and business experts. The panel discussed the entrepreneurial lifestyle, the challenges and successes that small businesses encounter and their own tips from the trenches.
The Business Plan Loan Factory is a free program for business owners and motivated entrepreneurs who need financing to start or grow their businesses. This program helps entrepreneurs understand what is involved in the loan application process, and it will feature business experts who guide them through creating a fundable business plan and loan package.
To inquire about workshops, please contact Tony Moraga, Manager of Small Business Services at tonym@sfcenter.org or by phone at (415) 865-5645.
Castro/Upper Market Business Attraction Program
The Castro is famous for its vibrant and visible LGBT community and its small, owner-operated businesses attracting thousands of tourists and visitors each year but, business vacancies are on the rise,
we are seeing more and more businesses dissolving or leaving the Castro area.
The Center has joined with other community organizations and leaders to launch a business attraction campaign to ensure the Castro's future as a diverse and thriving neighborhood. Our goal is to address the increasing vacancy rate in the district through attracting new businesses to the Castro/Upper Market neighborhood and strategically intervening with existing businesses that may be struggling and need extra support.
Testimonials
"I
just wanted to thank you for helping me get on the right
track with my desire to own my own business! Thanks for
helping me get through the ‘fear factor' of trying
something new. Your genuine enthusiasm went a long way
towards my believing that this is indeed possible!"
- Business Development Client
“Thanks for all of your help and guidance to resources. We really (really really) appreciate it, and will be better entrepreneurs as a result."
- Business Development Client
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