LGTBQ + businesses and fellow queer-owned businesses look out for one another. With one of the highest concentrations of LGBTQ +-owned businesses in the state, the Berkshires is especially important for us to support.
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Staubach: We know the realities of being an LBGTQ + business owner can include real challenges— whether it’ s access to resources, feeling isolated, or facing bias. What are some ways you see the Chamber helping to turn those challenges into opportunities for growth and connection?
Eberhardt: The Chamber is a one-stop shop: connecting business owners to resources, trainings, and each other. When roadblocks arise, we offer guidance. We also have the power to convene people to open doors that had previously not been open to our community. The Chamber’ s Easthampton office also provides a physical hub for Massachusetts entrepreneurs to collaborate.
Staubach: Representation matters in so many ways. Why is visibility for queer business leaders so critical?
Eberhardt: Our businesses are an important part of the state’ s economy. By being visible, we are reminding customers, elected officials, and the corporate community that we are here and ready to compete. Beyond that, it also empowers aspiring LGBTQ + entrepreneurs to see people like themselves succeeding.
Staubach: There’ s an effort to update a directory of Berkshire queer-owned businesses. Why is this resource valuable beyond the LGBTQ + community?
Eberhardt: People want to support marginalized-owned businesses but often don’ t know where to look. A directory makes it easy. I think they are pleasantly surprised to discover that there are many options in their area for them to support. Plus, spending locally keeps money circulating within the community, benefiting everyone.
Staubach: For those who are reading this and want to support this work, how can the public participate in what the Chamber is doing?
Eberhardt: Be intentional about where you shop and where you spend your money. Hire LGBTQ + vendors for events, recommend them to friends, and amplify their work online.
Staubach: What’ s a behind-the-scenes Chamber win that makes you proud?
Eberhardt: The diversity of our membership surprises people— we have virtually every product or service covered. I’ m also proud of how we supported members during crises like the pandemic. When our member businesses succeed, that is when we know our Chamber is succeeding too.
Staubach: What excites you most about the future of queer entrepreneurship in Berkshire County and Massachusetts?
Eberhardt: The room to grow. Massachusetts is a great place to live and raise a family, especially for LGBTQ + people, and there is a strong entrepreneurial spirit here that is undeniable. The best part is, you don’ t need to go at it alone— we have the network and resources to help a new business get off the ground, or an established business grow to new heights. n
Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce( MALGBTCC) is dedicated to empowering LGBTQ + businesses through networking, advocacy, and growth opportunities. Those interested in joining can explore tiered membership options at malgbtcc. org / membership or visit the Chamber’ s Western Mass office at 122 Pleasant Street, Suite 107, Easthampton, MA. malgbtcc. org
106 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Holiday May / June 2023 2025