The Independence Business Alliance (IBA), the local LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, has garnered significant recognition by being named the National Affiliate Chamber of the Year by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). This prestigious annual award not only honors excellence in community leadership but also highlights advocacy initiatives and innovative programming that benefits the LGBTQ+ sector.
This is not the IBA’s first accolade; they also received this honor back in 2014. Under the leadership of Zach Wilcha, the IBA’s CEO, the organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has played a critical role in this recent success. “While many organizations are retreating from DEI values, we have doubled down on our mission to support marginalized individuals within queer communities,” he stated, underscoring the IBA’s steadfast focus on inclusivity.
One of the key initiatives that showcase this commitment is the Philadelphia Diverse Chambers Coalition, which the IBA helped to establish. This coalition comprises various chambers of commerce that specifically serve marginalized groups in the area. With nearly a decade of collaboration, the coalition signed a memorandum of understanding in 2021, formalizing their commitment to a united front. Wilcha noted that the coalition builds a sense of community while empowering marginalized voices, which is hailed as a significant accomplishment in the region.
Additionally, the IBA’s efforts have intertwined with the African American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE (AACC), which was recognized as the national chamber of the year by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. This partnership signifies a broader trend of cooperation among various chambers to uplift diverse business leaders, creating a network that amplifies their collective power.
Wilcha was candid in describing the “less sexy” but highly impactful work that the coalition undertakes, which includes gathering essential data that informs local policymakers about the challenges faced by small business owners, especially those who may not speak up for themselves. This real-world data collection has led to pragmatic outcomes, ensuring that both LGBTQ+ and marginalized groups receive the support they need.
“The work we do is truly intersectional,” Wilcha explained, emphasizing the importance of understanding shared goals while recognizing individual differences. This approach is not merely a tagline; it influences how the IBA operates internally, ensuring that its leadership reflects a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences. This diversity is what Wilcha believes makes the IBA a sustainable and relevant organization.
In the current political climate, where many organizations struggle to align with progressive values, the IBA has remained committed to representing all segments of the LGBTQ+ community. “Business organizations often center around the majority, neglecting the most marginalized,” he remarked, stressing the importance of inclusive representation in their work.
Reflecting on recent achievements, Wilcha expressed gratitude towards the IBA’s over 300 members and supporters. He emphasized that the award is a shared triumph rather than a personal one. “This is an award for our entire community,” he asserted, highlighting the collaborative spirit that fuels the IBA’s initiatives.
The award announcement came during the NGLCC’s annual conference, the largest gathering for LGBTQ+ business matters in the nation. This conference serves not only as a networking opportunity but also as a space for exchanging valuable insights among leaders in varied sectors, from small businesses to large corporate entities.
Wilcha has taken note of successful initiatives from other regional chambers, which provide inspiration and potential frameworks for future IBA goals. For example, Cleveland’s initiative for allyship training among business leaders and Dallas’s efforts to encourage LGBTQ+ individuals to take leadership roles on boards offer valuable lessons. Houston’s collaboration with corporate leaders for community betterment and Minneapolis’s government partnership further demonstrate innovative approaches that could benefit Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ business landscape.
The IBA’s TransWork program, aimed at bridging economic gaps for transgender individuals by connecting them with affirming mentors and job opportunities, has also garnered attention. Launched in 2018, this initiative is already being replicated in other regions, showcasing the IBA’s innovative approach to advocacy.
Although a formal celebration of this year’s award is yet to take place, Wilcha assures that an event is in the works. He reiterated the importance of community and resource-sharing through LGBTQ+ chambers of commerce, emphasizing that entrepreneurship not only leads to economic empowerment but also fosters environments where individuals can live authentically.
Choosing to work in affirming and LGBTQ+-owned businesses, he noted, is crucial for creating a sense of belonging and authenticity for community members. By developing networks that support marginalized voices, the IBA contributes to the flourishing of diverse entrepreneurship and advocates for equity across all sectors.