About Us

Our History


The Indy Rainbow Chamber of Commerce (IRCC) was established in 2002 as a non-profit organization aimed at promoting and supporting LGBTQ+ businesses and professionals in the Indianapolis area. It was founded by a group of LGBTQ+ business owners and professionals who recognized the need for a dedicated chamber of commerce to advocate for LGBTQ+ economic equality.


The formation of the IRCC was a response to the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the business world, including discrimination, lack of resources, and limited networking opportunities. The chamber aimed to create a supportive and inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ businesses could thrive and succeed.


In its early years, the IRCC focused on building a strong network of LGBTQ+ business owners and professionals through regular networking events. It provided a platform for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other.


Over time, the chamber expanded its reach and influence, collaborating with other local organizations and chambers of commerce to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in the broader business community. The IRCC also actively engaged in advocacy efforts, working to eliminate discriminatory practices and policies that hindered LGBTQ+ economic growth.


One of the key milestones for the IRCC was its recognition as an affiliate chamber of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) in 2006. This affiliation allowed the IRCC to access national resources, certifications, and programs that further supported its mission.


In recent years, the IRCC has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its members. It has expanded its programming to include mentorship programs, business development resources, and LGBTQ+ supplier diversity initiatives. The chamber has also played an active role in promoting LGBTQ+ tourism and supporting LGBTQ+ events and initiatives in in Indianapolis and Indiana.


Today, the Indy Rainbow Chamber of Commerce and the Indiana Rainbow Chamber of Commerce remains a vital organization for LGBTQ+ businesses and professionals in Indianapolis. It continues to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable business environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering economic growth and empowerment within the community.

Education and networking
Collaboration & Partnerships
Advocacy
Business & Development Growth

meet the team

Our Board of Directors

official affiliate LGBTQ+ Chamber for the state of Indiana


Benefits of NGLCC Certification

 

Becoming a Certified LGBTBE® gives your business the opportunity to compete for sourcing contracts with NGLCC's partners.


The cost of being a certified business through the NGLCC is $899 BUT! as an Indy Rainbow Chamber Silver, Gold, Platinum or Chamber Sponsor, it is at no cost to you. It's FREE!


These corporate and government partners are committed to creating a diverse supply chain that is inclusive of LGBTQ-owned businesses, and have targeted amounts for spending with diverse business enterprises. Getting your business certified is a necessary element of gaining access to these billions of dollars in life-changing business opportunities.

  • National recognition by America’s top corporations as a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® supplier.
  • Eligibility to exhibit at the annual NGLCC International Business and Leadership Conference, as well as at regional events.
  • Automatic inclusion in the NGLCC’s online searchable database of certified businesses, which is accessible by NGLCC Corporate Partners.
  • Use of the NGLCC Certified Business logo on your marketing materials, which identifies your business as LGBTQ-owned through the NGLCC to an international audience.
  • Eligibility to receive sourcing opportunities from the NGLCC and its Corporate Partners.
  • Eligibility to participate in mentorship programs, leadership trainings, and scholarship opportunities presented by NGLCC Corporate Partners.
  • Eligibility for involvement with the Transgender & Gender Expansive (TGX) Initiative for TGX-owned businesses, and the Communities of Color Initiative (CoCi) for business owners of color.