BIZ Online NGLCC

The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce is utilizing the latest Web 2.0 opportunities to boost its presence on the Internet and develop vibrant online communities for LGBT small business owners and their allies.

The NGLCC recently launched a page on Facebook, the popular social networking site with tens of millions of members, and created a group on LinkedIn, the respected online business membership community.

"Social networking opportunities like these allow the NGLCC to create a community of interest with LGBT entrepreneurs and leading executives in corporate America," says Victoria Fulkerson, NGLCC's senior manager of corporate relations and supplier diversity.  "It also gives small business owners who haven't participated in NGLCC events or programs the opportunity to learn more about our activities and what we do for the LGBT business community."

The Facebook fan page—National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce-NGLCC—will not only allow the organization to introduce itself to potential new members, but it also will give current members and supporters a place to gather for discussions about current events or issues impacting the LGBT community.

Meanwhile, the LinkedIn group gives like-minded executives and business owners a chance to connect with each other in a trusted, professional space, providing participants with the opportunity to make business connections.

Fulkerson adds, "We're always looking to provide innovative ways for our members to communicate and share their experiences and knowledge. LinkedIn and Facebook are some of the best of what social networking has to offer."