OUT Syracuse LGBTQ+ Business Week Kicks Off & Makes Local Herstory

On Monday, December 1, Michael Sgro Leadership Coaching proudly joined LGBTQ+ business owners, allies, and community leaders for the OUT Syracuse Business Week Kick-Off event—an energizing evening hosted at the Inspyre Hub by CenterState CEO. The room buzzed with connection, collaboration, and the shared vision of a more inclusive and prosperous business community in Central New York.

The event (first of its kind) served as a powerful reminder that leadership is not simply about personal advancement—it’s about elevating the collective. As conversations flowed, attendees highlighted the importance of visibility, economic empowerment, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ professionals and entrepreneurs. OUT Syracuse is quickly becoming a central force in this work, creating space for people to learn, lead, and grow authentically.

A Launch Into National LGBTQ+ Business Week

This Kick-Off event also led directly into National LGBTQ+ Business Week, celebrated December 2–8, a nationwide effort to recognize the impact and contributions of LGBTQ+ business owners and to promote equity in the workplace and marketplace. The timing could not be more meaningful. As we stepped into the week, we carried with us the inspiration, energy, and renewed commitment sparked at Inspyre Hub.

National LGBTQ+ Business Week is an opportunity to:

• Highlight the economic power of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs

• Advocate for equitable business environments

• Support suppliers and companies that prioritize diversity

• Celebrate leaders who pave the way with authenticity and courage

Thank you to our media partners at Spatchcock Funk for actively supporting LGBTQ+ Business week, as one of our strongest allies and friends.

Danielle is the owner of ElleRae's Taco and was our lead caterer for the event kick-off.

Michael Sgro Leadership Coaching stands firmly behind this mission. Leadership thrives when individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to show up exactly as they are. Our work continues to focus on emotional intelligence, professional development, and cultivating confident leaders who drive positive change in their organizations and communities.

Maria from Exhale Bake Shop was one of our caterers for the event making sweet treats for the crowd. She is also the first member of the OUT Syracuse Hall-of Fame, which comes with a full executive coaching package made possible by the Lateisha Green Scholarship.

Looking Ahead

The OUT Syracuse Business Week Kick-Off event was only the beginning. With more speaker presentations planned for the week, the momentum within our local LGBTQ+ business ecosystem continues to grow. We are proud to be part of this expanding network of leaders who champion inclusion, innovation, and integrity.

Here's to a powerful National and Local LGBTQ+ Business Week—and to continuing the work of building a community where all leaders can shine. #BuyProud

If you’d like to learn more about leadership coaching, emotional intelligence development, or upcoming LGBTQ+ business initiatives from OUT Syracuse, Michael Sgro Leadership Coaching is here to support your journey.