This year's NGLCC National Conference broke attendance records, and that included a significant increase in affiliate chamber leaders' participation, many of them first-time attendees.
During the three-day conference, the NGLCC Council of Chambers and Business Organizations (CCBO) leadership organized exclusive sessions for affiliate chambers in sessions ranging from chamber branding, membership development and communication, to supplier diversity and government grants.
"The CCBO Chair and regional leaders organized and facilitated a very powerful track of learning, and we've received very positive feedback from those who participated," said Sam McClure, director of affiliate relations at the NGLCC and executive director of Twin Cities-based Quorum. "One of our most seasoned chamber executives told me this was the most valuable experience he's ever had with the CCBO."
McClure says the robust CCBO programming at this year's conference reflects the growth of LGBT chambers across the country and the NGLCC's continued dedication to expanding and strengthening its affiliates.
"The strength of this year's CCBO track is a sound indicator that the NGLCC has a strong commitment to growing our affiliates all over the country and that our affiliates are committed to championing our business communities and leveraging their leadership to access opportunities for their members," McClure said.
"Chamber leaders from San Diego to San Antonio, Miami to Chicago, Spokane to Nashville, San Francisco to Philadelphia, and everywhere in between made this the best affiliate attended conference to date, said Justin Nelson, co-founder and president at the NGLCC. Nelson also noted that as a result of attendance at this year's conference the NGLCC is now aiding in the launch of a new LGBT chamber in Kansas City, MO. Once launched, it will make it the 62nd affiliate chamber.
For McClure, the highlight of the conference was seeing new affiliate LGBT chambers represented for the first time.
"It's exciting to know that the business movement is growing," McClure said.
