Monthly ChamberConnect eNewsletter
Where Visibility Becomes Opportunity
Each month, the ChamberConnect eNewsletter brings you the people, opportunities, and ideas moving business forward across the Carolinas. This issue looks at how visibility turns into relationships, and relationships into opportunity, from member spotlights to the events where those connections start.
A Note to Start
See you at Charlotte Pride
This month's ChamberConnect has range: candidate conversations, member stories, professional development, local sports, supplier diversity, and plenty of reasons to get out of the house and into the room.
We will be in Uptown for the Charlotte Pride Festival on August 15th and 16th. Come find our table. Ask us a question. Tell us what you are building. Let us introduce you to someone who should know your name.
Because Pride is not only about being seen. It is about what becomes possible when visibility turns into conversation, conversation turns into connection, and connection creates opportunity.
We are looking for volunteers to spend a few hours with us at the festival and walk alongside us in Sunday's parade. If you can show up, hand out information, start a conversation, or bring the vibes, I would be glad to have you beside us.
Bring your sunscreen, comfortable shoes, water, and maybe a fan with some attitude. We'll see you at Pride this weekend.
Volunteer with usComing Up at CLGBTCC
Upcoming events across the Carolinas
2026 Clack the Vote: Non-Partisan Candidate Fair
6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Charlotte, NC
Meet the candidates on this fall's Charlotte and Mecklenburg County ballot, ask your questions, and decide for yourself.
Register
Lunch & Learn: Networking with Ease
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
An interactive workshop on building meaningful professional connections that last.
Register
Connect the Network with Rikketta Franklin
6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Relic NoDa, Charlotte
Practice networking in a relaxed, facilitated setting with Rikketta Franklin of The Social Experience, and get ready for the Friends in Business EXPO.
Register
Blue Ridge CONVERGE: Leadership Conference
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM | Western NC
CONVERGE brings together the community members and leaders who make up Western North Carolina, the first gathering of its kind.
Register
2026 Friends in Business EXPO
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM | Grady Cole Center, Charlotte
Charlotte's free LGBTQ+ business and career expo, connecting businesses, employers, nonprofits, professionals, and job seekers.
Register
November New Member Mix
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
New to the Chamber? Join the team to explore the benefits, resources, and events available to you as a new member.
RegisterFeatured Story
The Q Is on Purpose: How Crem Morris-Frazier Built Q Fitness and Wellness Into More Than a Gym
Crem Morris-Frazier built Q Fitness and Wellness into more than Charlotte's only LGBTQ+-focused gym. It is a growing ecosystem connecting affirming fitness, nutrition, wellness practitioners, community programming, and virtual clients across 3 continents.
Latest from Chamber Connect
More member stories worth your time
Build Advocates, Not Just Audiences: How Shane Lukas Turned Values Into a Business Model
Meet Shane Lukas of A Great Idea, and see how values, trust, and advocacy help businesses build stronger brands and loyal communities.
Buying Local, Responsible Pet Care and Pet Products
Meet Tara Belzer, owner of Pet in the City and Dilworth Dog Grooming, offering trusted pet products and cage-free grooming in Charlotte.
Do Hiring Managers Read Cover Letters? A Head of HR Answers
HR leader Darrell Fincher-Crusan shares candid advice on resumes, networking, AI, remote work, and career growth.
Community Partner Spotlight
Carolina Ascent FC
Charlotte's professional women's soccer club in the Gainbridge Super League. The home opener is August 29 at American Legion Memorial Stadium against Tampa Bay Sun FC, kickoff 7:00 PM.
Charlotte Royals Rugby
The Queen City's inclusive rugby club opens its Fall 2026 season September 19 at the Gaston Gargoyles, with a home match against the Washington Scandals on October 10 and a November 14 doubleheader.
Raffaldini Vineyards
Every third weekend in September, Raffaldini Vineyards celebrates its Italian roots with Festa Italiana, an unforgettable weekend filled with authentic food, wine, music, and culture. Set against the backdrop of a Tuscan-inspired villa and breathtaking vineyard views, Festa Italiana invites guests to immerse themselves in the traditions, flavors, and hospitality of Italy.
Get Involved
Your next connection starts here
Membership turns visibility into relationships, and relationships into opportunity. Join the Chamber, explore who is already here, and tell us what you are building.