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Tampa Is Finalist to Host National Gay, Lesbian Chamber Convention

Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce | LGBT | Business

Local organizers say the 2018 conference has the welcoming and support of Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman as well as Visit Tampa Bay.

TAMPA – This city has made the list of four finalists to host the 2018 National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce convention.

A significant consideration in the selection is Tampa’s thriving economy, inclusive policies, and regional support of LGBTQA issues. The local chapter of NGLCC, the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce, boasts a successful scholarship program and a record year with their annual gala: Diamonds in Diversity, honoring local political and business leaders.

The 2018 conference has the welcoming and support of Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, along with Visit Tampa Bay, and the entire board of directors of the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce.

“We are excited to be a finalist for the 2018 National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Convention,” said Santiago Corrada, president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “Hosting this event will elevate the entire Tampa Bay community in the eyes of the world as a major LGBTQ destination capable of putting on a significant, high-quality national event”

Corrada added, “As the site evaluation delegation is hopefully [witnessed during their visit that ended Friday (March 10)], we are a very rich and culturally vibrant community that is fast becoming one of the most attractive destinations in the U,S., if not the world. We extend our gratitude to the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce and all of the partners who have been working hard to showcase our beautiful city and we invite everyone to take part in our annual Tampa Pride later this month, on March 25.”

Ashley Brundage, president of the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce, said, “This national conference will put Tampa Bay on the Map with LGBTQ Conventions and the more than 200 major corporate partners of the NGLCC. Each of these corporations strive to showcase their equality and diversity in their daily activities. Our rich, culturally diverse community will provide a positive impact on the conference attendees.

“The recently released economic report from the NGLCC states that LGBT owned businesses contribute $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy. The Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce is excited for the opportunity to showcase our city and community impact.

“We plan to partner our Student Mentorship groups with LGBTQ leaders from across the country, contributing to them earning points in the program toward our annual scholarships awarded in January at Diamonds in Diversity.”

Brundage and her wife, Whitney, will co-chair the local aspects of the convention if Tampa is chosen.

The Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce began more than 30 years ago to provide an environment for business owners and local organizations to build an alternative community based on shared goals, friendship, and trust.

For information about the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce, go to diversitytampabay.org.

National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce | Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce | Convention | TB Reporter

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