As we close 2025 and look ahead to 2026, we want to begin with gratitude to every member, partner, volunteer, and supporter who continues to stand with the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce (CLGBTCC). This past year has been one of evolution, resilience, renewed focus, and our progress has been made possible by the strength of the community surrounding us.

Across the Carolinas, we have navigated a quickly shifting economic and corporate landscape while remaining steadfast to our mission to create pathways for economic mobility, visibility, and opportunity for LGBT+ and Allied businesses and professionals. Even as national priorities and funding models evolved, our Chamber leaned forward: strengthening retention, expanding regional engagement, and continuing to serve as the trusted connector for LGBT+ aligned businesses, nonprofits, and professionals alike.

One of the most meaningful developments this year has been the continued growth of our offices, that we call the Impact Center. In 2025, the Center underscored our vision for a true hub for collaboration, welcoming entrepreneurs/small business owners, business professionals, nonprofit leaders, and our corporate partners from across NC and SC. Through meetings, training, co-working, and programming, the Impact Center has reinforced what’s possible when access, community, and opportunity come together and create a place for belonging.

This year also reaffirmed a core truth: your membership matters more than ever. The strength of this Chamber has always come from the people who choose to invest in us, collectively. Every new corporate partner, every renewal, and every referral directly fuels the educational programs, advocacy, and networking connections that define our economic driven mission-based work. Membership is not simply a transaction; it is a shared commitment to sustaining an ecosystem where LGBT+ and allied businesses can thrive.

Despite the aforementioned ongoing challenges, 2025 was a year of measurable impact. We strengthened regional networks, expanded partnerships, supported small businesses with access to capital and niche experts to increase their economic standing in our local economy, and continued to show up across communities throughout North and South Carolina. None of this happens without you.

As we move into 2026, we do so with increased clarity and momentum. We will continue deepening our work in economic development, workforce engagement, and entrepreneurial empowerment while simplifying how we communicate and making it easier for people to connect with, support, and advocate for this Chamber.

Our focus remains grounded in a simple truth: Community is the Foundation, Connections are the Fuel, and Opportunities are the Outcome. Thank you for believing in this work and for investing in the future of our community. Together, we are building a more inclusive, connected, and economically vibrant Carolinas.

Together, We Are the Carolinas.

Chad Turner | President & CEO        Richard A. Stevens, Jr. | 2026 Board Chair