B y T a y l o r S t a u b a c h A Conversation with Massachusetts LGBT Chamber’ s ALEXANDRIA EBERHARDT
In Massachusetts, LGBTQ +-owned businesses are thriving— yet systemic barriers persist. Alexandria Eberhardt, executive director of the Easthampton-based Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce( MALGBTCC), is on a mission to dismantle those obstacles. Through advocacy, resource-sharing, and fostering community, the MALGBTCC empowers queer entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and strengthen local economies. With a dynamic network of over 530 member businesses— and growing— partnering with the Chamber is about generating wealth and creating equality for local people from marginalized communities.
A new initiative in the Berkshires is a monthly LGBTQ + Business / Professional / Community Leaders Networking Event, co-presented by MALGBTCC, Wander Berkshires, Berkshire Magazine, and Q-MoB. Held on the third Wednesday of every month at 5:30 p. m., these gatherings rotate locations to spotlight different LGBTQ +-owned businesses in the Berkshires. The next meeting is on May 21 at Heart’ s Pace Teahouse, 15 Eagle St., North Adams.( Visit berkshiremag. com to register and for any updates.)
We caught up with Eberhardt to discuss the Chamber’ s new initiative in the Berkshires, the unique strength of LGBTQ + business leaders, and why visibility matters now more than ever.
Staubach: For those unfamiliar, how would you describe the role of the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the impact you hope to have across the state?
Eberhardt: MALGBTCC was created to level the playing field for LGBTQ +-owned businesses. For too long, LGBTQ +-owned businesses lacked the same access to contracts, lending, and other resources needed to thrive. We know that when small businesses thrive, so do families and communities. MALBGTCC’ s goal is to help LGBTQ + businesses have access to all the tools they need to succeed.
Staubach: Why was it important to you and the Chamber to bring a monthly gathering of queer business leaders to the Berkshires? What kind of energy or opportunities do you see growing in this space?
Eberhardt: There is power in coming together, in business owners meeting their peers and learning from each other. It’ s an opportunity for businesses to partner and grow together. We hope everyone finds the time fun, useful, and informative.
Staubach: How do you envision these monthly meetups evolving? What are your hopes for the kind of collaborations, mentorships, or support systems they might spark?
Eberhardt: We envision the meetups growing into a strong, supportive community where folks feel empowered to share experiences, build connections, and uplift one another. Ideally, they’ ll spark mentorship opportunities, advocacy projects, and creative collaborations. Above all, we want attendees to feel a sense of belonging— a space where they’ re seen, valued, and inspired to make a difference.
Staubach: What unique strengths or characteristics do queer-owned businesses bring to the broader business landscape of the Berkshires?
Eberhardt: At their core, queer-owned businesses bring a unique blend of innovation, resilience, and community focus. Many prioritize inclusivity, attracting diverse talent and setting standards for equity. This commitment to social impact isn’ t just moral— it’ s good business. Studies show inclusive companies outperform peers in employee satisfaction and every business metric.
Staubach: You work statewide, so you’ re seeing queer entrepreneurs and business owners in all kinds of environments. What feels particularly special or promising about the business community here in Berkshire County?
Eberhardt: The Berkshires have a rare sense of community that you don’ t always see in other places. Customers actively support
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