Contents

Welcome from the Executive Director 6

LGBTBE® Certification 10

LGBTBE® Spotlight 12

Support these LGBTBE® Businesses 14

UMB Financial Corporation Banking on the LGBTQ+ Community 20

AltCap Transforms Dreams into Success 24

Our Impact Partners & Leadership Members 28

Member Search 33

Welcome from the Executive Director

We’re Still Here—For You, With You

Over the past few months, I’ve made it my priority to meet with members, to listen and to truly hear. I’ve sat across from LGBTQ+ business owners navigating uncertainty, professionals striving to be seen and valued, and allies who are just as committed to building an inclusive and thriving business community. I’ve heard your concerns, your frustrations and your fears. And I want you to know that I take every single conversation to heart.

Yes, we’re evolving. We have to. The world is shifting, and we want to make sure we’re not just keeping up—we’re staying ahead. That means sometimes we’ll adjust how we show up, how we talk about our work and how we position ourselves. But what will never change is why we do this. We are here because you matter—whether you’re an LGBTQ+ entrepreneur, a dedicated professional or an ally who believes in equality and economic opportunity for all. Your businesses all matter.

This Chamber isn’t just an organization. We're a network of people who lift each other up, who show up for one another and who make this business community stronger every day. That won’t change. Not now, not ever.

And, my door is always open. I want to keep hearing from you—about the challenges, the wins, the frustrations and the unpredictable moments that come with running a business or navigating the professional world. Your voices shape the work we do, and they help us ensure that we’re responding in ways that truly serve you.

So, if you ever wonder where you stand, know this: you belong here. We’ve got your back. And no matter what comes next, we’re in it together.

With gratitude,

Tracey DaMarea

Executive Director

LGBTBE Certification®

Partnership program helps to ensure growth and success of small businesses

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce is proud to collaborate with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) on the LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) certification program. As the only national third-party certifying organization, the NGLCC verifies that qualifying businesses are majority LGBT-owned, awarding them the official LGBTBE® designation. When you join the Mid-America LGBT Chamber, your application fee for certification is waived. Locally, our Chamber is committed to offering exclusive programming and events tailored specifically for our LGBTBE® members. Past events have included a "Get to Know You" Happy Hour, LGBTBE® Roundtables, a workshop on creating capability statements and more. These local initiatives are organized by a dedicated committee throughout the year.

WHY CERTIFY?

The LGBTBE® Certification Program provides members with unique privileges

Certified LGBTBE® companies are actively sought by NGLCC partners looking to engage LGBTQ-owned and other small businesses in competitive contracting opportunities. These partners can find certified LGBTBEs through NGLCC’s proprietary internal database.

Benefits of being an LGBTBE:

•  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.

•  Eligibility to participate in mentorship programs, leadership trainings and scholarship opportunities.

What are the minimum criteria for certification?

Be at least 51% owned, operated, managed and controlled by an LGBTQ person or persons who are either U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.

•  Exercise independence from any non-LGBTQ business enterprise.

•  Have its principal place of business (headquarters) in the United States.

•  Have been formed as a legal entity in the United States.

How long does it take to process my certification application?

Once NGLCC receives your completed application, it will take 60 to 90 days to process. Please note that failure to submit a complete application will result in delays in that processing time and a site inspection is a mandatory element of the initial certification process.

How long does NGLCC certification last?

Certification as a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® lasts for three years from the date certification is granted.

Can an LGBTQ person(s) and a non-LGBTQ person(s) jointly own a company?

Yes, an LGBTQ person and a non-LGBTQ person can own a company jointly; however, the LGBTQ person must be the majority owner with at least 51% ownership and must demonstrate that his/her/their management and control of the company, his/her/their contribution of capital and/or expertise, and his/her/their assumption of all profits and risks are commensurate with his/her/their ownership percentage.

Why do I need a site visit? Do I have to pay for it?

Site visits are a mandatory element of the initial certification process, in accordance with industry standards. Site visits provide a key perspective into the day-to-day operation of a business. By seeing the facility and asking questions that are complementary to the questions asked in the application, the site visit completes the picture of the business applicant. The site visit plays an essential role in demonstrating the ownership, operation, control and management of a business and allows the NGLCC to become more familiar with certified businesses. In the event a site visit must be canceled or rescheduled due to scheduling conflicts or a lack of preparation on the part of the applicant business, an applicant fee may be incurred. Otherwise, there is no fee for the site visit. All site visits are scheduled in consultation with the business seeking certification. There are no surprise site visits.

What do I do after I receive my certification?

After you receive your certification letter and certificate in the mail, the next step is to register with the NGLCC’s Corporate Partners through the NGLCC website. Registration with each Corporate Partner is slightly different, and it is critical to get your business into the database of each of our Corporate Supplier Diversity Partners. After you are registered, work with NGLCC staff to learn the best ways to reach out to our Corporate Partners through letters, phone calls and NGLCC matchmaking events. The Supplier Diversity team offers a variety of tools to newly certified LGBTQ business owners, including orientations and other tools for success. Contact the NGLCC SDI Team to begin taking advantage of these resources!

Is there a fee for certification?

NGLCC waives the certification fee ($899) and recertification fee ($499) for applicants who submit proof of valid, current membership with their local affiliate chamber of commerce. By joining your local affiliate chamber, you can network with local LGBTQ and allied business owners, have access to local programming and events and can take advantage of local business opportunities. Become a member of your local affiliate chamber to not only leverage local membership benefits but also to take advantage of complimentary national certification. An applicant does not necessarily need to be based locally in order to be a member of an affiliate chamber. Applicants who do not wish to join their local affiliate chamber will be prompted to pay a non-refundable certification / recertification fee when completing the application for certification.

–Information provided by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)

LGBTBE Spotlight®

Networking, support and economic inclusivity rank high for these members

Zach Beyer – Waldo Accounting Services

Why was getting certified important to you?

The LGBTBE certification has been around for about 20 years, but I think there is still an opportunity to promote better awareness of the certification.  It’s an instantly recognizable and trusted branding that helps consumers and other organizations identify LGBTQ+-owned businesses. By certifying my business, I can now be part of the effort to increase recognition of the certification opportunity and hopefully show other LGBTQ+ business operators that they, too, can be part of this movement.

What benefits have come with being certified?

New business! Within the first two months of being certified, I had several potential new clients reach out to me expressing their desire to support LGBTQ+ businesses in our community. I was amazed at how quickly the certification paid dividends.

Camilo Fontecilla - Fontecilla Marketing

Why was getting certified important to you?

As an LGBTQ+ business owner, I want my clients to know they are working with a company that is both highly capable and proudly inclusive. Displaying the certification logo on my website and marketing materials reinforces that my identity is fully embraced in my professional life while also highlighting my business as a trusted, qualified provider. It allows me to show up authentically while building meaningful relationships with those who value both excellence and diversity.

What would you tell people who are considering becoming an LGBTBE?

The process may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually straightforward and well-supported. Both your local Chamber and the NGLCC are committed to making certification as seamless as possible, and you’ll find plenty of guidance along the way. Additionally, certified members within the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce are always willing to offer insight and assistance to help you through the process. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions, and I’ll be more than happy to share my experience!

Dr. Laura Janusik – Listening to Change

Why was getting certified important to you? 

I’m a proud LGBT+ business owner contributing to society.

What benefits have come with being certified?

I’ve met some amazing people who have become part of my network. I know that even though businesses are different, we struggle with similar issues. I can reach out to this network for advice, ideas and recommendations.

What would you tell people who are considering becoming an LGBTBE?

Do it!

Brenton Guice – The Mental Hug

Why was getting certified important to you?

As a queer therapist and small business owner, getting certified as a LGBTBE was a way to formally align my business with my values. The Mental Hug is a space where LGBTQIA+ individuals can feel seen, understood and supported in their healing journeys without having to defend their identities. Certification was important because it not only affirms my identity but also strengthens my business by connecting me with a broader network of LGBTQIA+ professionals and allies. Visibility matters, and this certification helps show that LGBTQIA+ businesses are valuable and worthy of support.

What would you tell people who are considering becoming an LGBTBE?

If you’re thinking about getting certified, do it! It’s more than just a title—it’s an opportunity to connect with a supportive network, experience increased visibility and partake in business opportunities tailored to LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. I find that it also signals to clients, customers and partners that your business is part of a larger movement toward inclusivity and representation, and that you’re dedicated to those values. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, networking or simply a stronger sense of belonging in the business world, becoming an LGBTBE can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Kate Nielsen – On Tap LLC

Why was getting certified important to you?

I knew there were additional business development opportunities available for certified businesses and that our corporate partners value certification in their supplier diversity programs.

What benefits have come with being certified?

We have had some great educational content on developing a capability statement, how to engage with supplier diversity programs, using procurement portals, and this list goes on.

What would you tell people who are considering becoming an LGBTBE?

The educational opportunities, networking and community we’ve built for certified businesses
have been incredibly beneficial to my
development as a
business owner.

Traci Smiley – Calibration Physical Therapy

What benefits have come with being certified?

Since becoming certified, we’ve gained access to a supportive network of LGBTQIA+ business owners and corporate partners who are committed to supplier diversity. The certification has opened doors to new opportunities for collaboration, mentorship and potential contracts with companies that prioritize working with diverse businesses. It has also strengthened our ability to connect with our community, helping patients and partners recognize that Calibration Physical Therapy is a safe, affirming space for care.

What would you tell people who are considering becoming an LGBTBE?

If you’re an LGBTQIA+-owned business, getting certified is absolutely worth it! Beyond the networking and business opportunities, it’s a powerful way to take pride in your identity and be part of a larger movement for economic inclusion. The LGBTBE® certification helps amplify your voice, build credibility and connect you with like-minded professionals who support and uplift one another. If you’re considering it, take the leap—you’ll be joining a thriving community that values your business and wants to see you succeed.

Support these LGBTBE® businesses

Anna Knutson Photography offers high-quality photoshoots for individuals and businesses. My focus is on capturing authentic moments and emotions that tell a unique story.

Aspis Consulting solves complex IT problems for mid-to-large enterprises and government organizations. We specialize in cybersecurity, governance, strategy, policy, risk management, compliance and custom software development.

Bishop-McCann, founded in 1997 by Dan Nilsen, is an award-winning leader in meetings, incentives and events worldwide. The agency specializes in creating exceptional attendee experiences and cultivating high-touch client relationships.

Calibration Physical Therapy is an orthopedic clinic dedicated to providing inclusive, expert care. It fosters a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to heal, recover and optimize movement with personalized, compassionate treatment.

Courage is contagious. Anyone can lead. Our leadership consulting agency works with clients ready to transform their spaces into places where belonging and innovation can thrive.

Crum Cleaning is a residential and commercial cleaning company whose core purpose is solving your pain with cleaning solutions.

Dave Greenbaum, aka DoctorDave, makes “mouse calls” in Kansas City, Lawrence and Topeka, helping small office, home office and residential customers with expert computer repair, upgrades and tech support.

Dutzel’s Catering is an award-winning, full-service catering company dedicated to creating high-end culinary experiences. We specialize in delicious, artfully crafted food that transforms any gathering into a memorable occasion.

Eangee provides handmade lamps made from unique materials like real cocoa leaves in designs that will blow your mind!

Fontecilla Marketing delivers big agency marketing with small agency hustle. Since we are small, you get personalized, responsive and thoughtful service, but with the polished output and powerful results of a large agency.

Happy Faces Entertainment provides live entertainment and team building for all ages and events. That includes emceeing, game shows, murder mysteries, drag, magic, storytelling, clowning, strolling entertainers and more.

Jennspire is a coaching and speaking business founded by bestselling author and proud transgender woman Jennifer Marie, who is dedicated to fostering understanding, acceptance and empowerment around gender identity.

I love helping anyone achieve their goal of buying, selling and investing in real estate. It’s special, personal and a huge decision, and who you hire is just as important as the goal itself!

Levity Events is a premier event production and DJ service provider based in the Kansas City metro area, specializing in corporate events, fundraisers, weddings, galas and school functions. With over a decade of experience, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including innovative lighting, audio-visual production, stage design and seamless event execution.

Move from uncertain to confident! I coach and train leaders in communication, listening and leadership development. I also support caregivers in navigating cognitive decline with empathy, resilience and effective communication strategies.

Hair care made in the Ozarks! Experience the transformative power of MyHairFriend Hair Care Products. Elevate your hair care routine to a whole new level of luxury, sustainability and well-being.

Nobody cares more about your website than we do. Website design, development and long-term support. You can trust us to take care of accessibility, security and provide high-performing, effective websites. We are your website partner.

Scott Harvey Real Estate Services LLC is a locally owned and operated real estate brokerage specializing in helping buyers, sellers and investors accomplish their real estate goals. With over 20 years of experience as a broker in the Kansas City market and beyond, we can help you navigate the market and accomplish your goals.

Scratch Office Catering: Specializing in exceptional catering experiences in Kansas City, we deliver fresh, made-from-scratch meals for corporate events, office lunches and special occasions. With quality ingredients, bold flavors and outstanding service, we make every meal unforgettable.

Summit Phone Repair is a WISE-certified, BBB-accredited repair shop in Lee’s Summit, specializing in fast, high-quality device repairs with a lifetime warranty. Dedicated to the Right to Repair movement and reducing e-waste. Services include screen replacements, battery swaps, online buyback and protection plans.

The Mental Hug is a queer-owned therapy space for LGBTQIA+ people navigating trauma, grief and life’s challenges. You deserve to be seen, valued and supported. Let’s heal together.

The Witchy Bibliophile creates upcycled book accessories and herbalism-based self-care items to add a little magic to your everyday routine.

A CPA firm that loves working with entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders because of the passion they have, but knows the “business” of running a business can be tedious and complicated. Let us focus on keeping up your books so you can stay focused on your passion.

Thank you to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for their support of this program.

Banking on the LGBTQ+ Community

UMB Financial Corporation strives to work with underrepresented groups

By Steven Lindsey

With its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, 12-year Chamber member UMB Financial Corporation is a financial services company that offers a comprehensive line of personal and commercial banking services. After acquiring HTLF Bank, UMB was able to significantly expand its reach, now operating branches in 13 states and serving clients across the globe. It’s inside these offices, however, where associates can have the biggest impact, interacting with clients to build strong personal relationships that help their businesses flourish.

“UMB is concentrated on being a good corporate citizen, focusing on prudent business practices, efficient and sustainable resource use, transparent governance and diversity and inclusion. We strive to do the right thing and to make an impact on the people and communities we serve—and encourage associates to do the same,” said Angelica DeSimio, vice president and senior Inclusion, Diversity and Associate Giving consultant.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community herself, she values working for a company that both serves underserved communities and allows her to be her authentic self in the workplace.

“Not being visible can take a toll on you: mentally, emotionally, physically. Being visible as a member of the LGBTQ+ community at UMB allows me to share my unique skills, experiences and perspectives with those around me,” she said. “I can create meaningful relationships with my colleagues, which positively impacts my performance and, ultimately, my overall satisfaction at UMB.”

DeSimio said that UMB encourages associates to be who they are and honors what they bring to the table. This aligns well when an LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE)-certified business needs support.

“Within our community portfolio, we strive to maintain a diverse mix of organizations and businesses from underrepresented groups,” she said. “We are proud to work with the LGBTQ+ community through investing in organizations that provide training, mentorship and grants – along with encouraging community engagement through our Pride Business Resource Group.”

UMB also has an Undivided Attention program, which was designed to increase the representation of businesses and nonprofits from under-supported communities in industries in which they struggle to thrive. The program focuses on discussing the barriers and trends to give some insight not often shared with minority businesses.

In DeSimio’s role, she’s also able to provide strategic guidance to UMB’s Business Resource Groups (BRGs), which include groups for veterans, Asian Americans, Hispanic/Latinos, Blacks/African Americans, women and members of the queer community.

“We have dozens of Pride BRG members who are actively involved with the Chamber, including a member of the Board of Directors, Francisco Camargo,” she said. “I encourage our members to attend Coffee Connections, B2B and Workforce Sync events, and I love attending them myself. Those spaces are needed and wanted to develop a network of LGBTQ+ professionals with whom we can brainstorm, collaborate and celebrate.

“Minority businesses are key pieces of our economy and generate nearly $2 trillion in revenue each year. More than that, these businesses and their people are often pillars in their communities,” DeSimio said. “They provide jobs for neighbors, vital goods and services, spaces to gather and a real opportunity for people to realize their American Dream.”

And, that’s all good news for the bottom line.

“The economy thrives in a competitive environment, so giving minority, small and underserved businesses an equal chance to participate can only improve the odds that everyone thrives. UMB is proud to offer minority-owned businesses comprehensive solutions, strategic financial advice and responsive bankers who can help their dreams come to life.”

By joining forces with the Chamber, UMB (and any area business for that matter) can turn connections into genuine success.

“The Chamber is a champion for including and empowering LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs to contribute to the economic growth of our region by providing an equitable playing field. After going to events hosted by the Chamber, it’s easy to see how the programs, networking and advocacy opportunities have a real and positive impact on business in our community,” DeSimio said.

She appreciates the initiatives that cater to both LGBTQ+ small businesses and people who identify as allies and work at larger LGBTQ+ organizations.

“Knowing about and interacting with diverse people at all levels creates a sense of belonging that extends far beyond any one person’s reach. Where diversity is present, creativity and innovation flow freely,” DeSimio said. “This allows for genuine connections, support and growth that are central to the Chamber’s presence as a critical entity where people and businesses feel included and truly belong.”

“The economy thrives in a competitive environment, so giving minority, small and underserved businesses an equal chance to participate can only improve the odds that everyone thrives. UMB is proud to offer minority-owned businesses comprehensive solutions, strategic financial advice and responsive bankers who can help their dreams come to life.”

— Angelica DeSimio

Vice President/Senior Inclusion, Diversity & Associate Giving Consultant

Transform dreams into success

AltCap empowers underestimated entrepreneurs & communities with accessible loans

By Steven Lindsey

Not every business plan fits the rigorous requirements of major financial institutions. So, when an entrepreneur with a great idea can’t find funding through banks and other traditional methods, some might feel hopeless. But AltCap exists to provide accessible loans to these very individuals and small businesses.

“As a mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we believe that accessible capital strengthens communities,” says Bobby Burch, AltCap’s director of marketing and communications. “Access to capital helps entrepreneurs launch, sustain and grow their businesses, making our communities more vibrant, resilient and reflective of their residents.”

AltCap’s nonprofit designation allows the organization to reinvest its revenues into loan funds to serve more underserved entrepreneurs who may struggle to access bank loans or be tempted by high-interest financing options.

“We are proud to be an alternative source of fair, flexible capital. In addition to our lending services, AltCap offers business coaching services to help entrepreneurs sustainably grow their business,” Burch said.

To date, AltCap has deployed nearly $50 million to small businesses in Kansas and Missouri, as well as Nebraska, Texas, Colorado and California through its affiliate, AltCap California. AltCap also offers New Markets Tax Credit consulting services for organizations exploring community-impact real estate projects in economically distressed communities.

AltCap’s office is located at 300 E. 39th Street in Kansas City, Mo., so it’s convenient for Chamber members to get personalized, face-to-face interactions.

“But you’ll also likely see AltCappers at Mid-America LGBT Chamber events or at other entrepreneur-focused events around Kansas City,” Burch said. “We’re always happy to grab a coffee or lunch if you’d like to discuss ideas, your business goals or partnership opportunities.”

The first step for business owners is to submit a loan application at altcap.org. After that, an AltCapper will schedule a call to learn more about the business and goals, explain the remainder of the process and answer any questions that arise during the conversation.

AltCap is new to the Chamber, but Burch said the organization joined specifically to make connections and learn how to become a better community organization for LGBTBE-certified businesses.

“Our financing and services are open to all people, but we are always striving for improvement in serving communities that have been marginalized,” he said. “We believe that every entrepreneur deserves access to capital, no matter who they are or who they love. We’re proud to partner with the Mid-America LGBT Chamber to better understand the unique challenges LGBTBE businesses face.”

Burch stressed that AltCap doesn’t exist exclusively for loans.

“We’re here to listen, learn and grow alongside the businesses we serve. As our partnership grows, we’re committed to expanding our reach and making sure LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs have access to the capital, resources and networks they need to thrive,” he said.

Microloans are another resource available to all types of minority businesses, in addition to ARTcap, which aims to help artists and creative entrepreneurs. This no-collateral loan up to $20,000 helps entrepreneurs fuel their creative businesses.

“LGBTBE businesses may also want to apply for our annual AltCap Your Biz Pitch Competition (ACYB). In addition to offering business and banking coaching, ACYB awards more than $50,000 in cash prizes each year to Kansas City-area small businesses,” he said.

Anyone who sees Burch or an AltCap team member at a Chamber event is encouraged to ask about their services.

“We’ve only been a member for a few months, but we’re so grateful to be a part of this amazing community. We’ve loved attending the Happy Hour events and have made wonderful connections,” he said. “Serving minority-owned businesses is in the DNA of AltCap. We believe in the power of entrepreneurship to transform communities for the better. But despite that belief, access to capital hasn’t always been fair. Too many small business owners, especially those in historically disadvantaged groups, have struggled to get the funding they need to start or grow their businesses. We're here to fill that gap.”

According to Burch, AltCap is part of a family of more than 1,400 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). The concept of CDFIs dates back to the 19th century, when minority depository institutions were created, and is rooted in the Civil Rights movements of the 1950s and 1960s. For generations, CDFIs have helped marginalized communities access new opportunities and create economic agency for those negatively impacted by segregation and redlining.

“Now more than ever, we need to double down on supporting businesses that bring economic resilience to our communities. The roadblocks may still be there, but we’re committed to ensuring that every entrepreneur with the drive and vision to succeed has the financial tools to make it happen,” he said. “Policies may change, but our mission stays the same: We exist to empower underserved entrepreneurs by providing accessible capital to pursue their dreams and help our communities thrive.”

“Policies may change, but our mission stays the same: We exist to empower underserved entrepreneurs by providing accessible capital to pursue their dreams and help our communities thrive.”

— Bobby Burch, AltCap

Director of Marketing and Communications

Our Impact Partners & Leadership Members