LGBTQ+ Biz Bootcamp

The LGBTQ+ Biz Bootcamp was founded by the LGBT Business Foundation of Illinois in 2019 to assist  LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with launching and grow sustainable businesses that will positively impact our local communities. Facilitated by Kristina Wynne of The Wynners Club, the six-week cohort program will provide participants with broad practical skills and a demonstrated ability to apply knowledge using skills such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration to help them further develop and define their entrepreneurial journey. Participants will be supported with a classroom mentor, and will complete the program by competing for $500 to invest in their business. 

Bootcamp will begin on Saturday, October 5th, 9:30am?2pm.
Classes will be held every Saturday, with the final class convening on November 9th.
Students will share their pitch during the week of November 16th. 

Program Schedule 

OCT 5: Get the Juices Flowing and the Groundwork Laid!
OCT 12: Getting to the Money: Finding Capital and Customers
OCT 19: Turning My Passion into a Business: The Business Plan
OCT 26: The 5 W?s About Me and My Business
NOV 2: Super Powers Revealed #GoTime
NOV 9: Practice, Practice, Practice: Developing the Pitch

Participant and Program Requirements

• Participants must be an out LGBTQ+ individual who is comfortable having their photo, names, and businesses printed in news, social media, etc. 
• Participants are required to attend 100% of the scheduled program.
• Participants must complete all pre and post surveys. 
• Participants must participate in the pitch competition. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the program? There is no cost to participate in the program. Participants are required to provide their own transportation to and from each class. Students will be provided lunch and materials for the bootcamp.

Who are the best candidates for this program? The program is best suited for applicants who have moved past ?idea? phase. You have likely tested the market with your product or services, but still need to develop a business plan, social media strategy, and plans for accessing capital.

What happens if I miss a class? Participants are expected to attend 100% of scheduled workshops. If a participant misses one program that will not be invited to compete for $500. A participant will be removed from the program after a second absence.

Where will classes be held? Class will be held at the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois. The office is located inside the Fifth-Third building on the second floor. The Chamber is located at:
3179 N. Clark Street
2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60657.