Emerge
Mission and Vision
The Emerge Business Leadership Academy aims to provide a platform for the professional growth and business development of our future business leaders. It offers a comprehensive, hands-on educational program for future business leaders of large corporations or aspiring entrepreneurs, with an intentional focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Goals:
Emerge will graduate a cohort of new business leaders each class quarter, prepared to succeed in their respective careers and professions. Graduates will be uniquely prepared to excel in the workplace, become leaders in their fields, and advocate for equality in the workplace so that everyone feels safe, seen, and affirmed. Emerge also fosters a strong community, building lasting relationships and skills through shared experiences and knowledge.
This program is designed for LGBTQ+ and allied professionals who are early in their careers or leadership journeys. It provides opportunities for growth through purposeful networking and practical learning experiences, empowering emerging leaders to thrive in today’s business landscape.
Program Outline:
The Emerge Business Leadership Academy is an ideal option for LGBTQ+ professionals and allies who wish to be involved with The Pride Chamber but do not own a business or are not employed by a member business.
- Cost: The 12-week courses are $199.00 per cohort.
- Graduation Gift: Each graduate receives a free one-year Small Business level membership to The Pride Chamber for personal use. This membership includes free or discounted access to all networking and educational opportunities. (Please note: if you don't own a business, this level doesn't include a directory listing or RED eligibility. Membership is non-transferable.)
- Class Size: 20 - 30 students per quarter.
- Class Format: Classes are held live at the NEC or virtually and are videoed. Only 2 absences are allowed with video make-up.
- Instructors: Subject Matter Experts from the Corporate Equality Council, business community, and community leaders, donating their time and expertise.
Curriculum:
Week 1: July 8, 2025 - Virtual - Course Introduction & Icebreaker
Week 2: July 15, 2025 - Virtual - Communication & Pitching Skills
Week 3: July 22, 2025 - Virtual - General Business Foundations
Week 4: July 29, 2025 - Virtual - Finance & Accounting for Business
Week 5: August 5, 2025 - Virtual - LGBTQ BE Certification & Supplier Diversity
Week 6: August 12, 2025 - Virtual - Logistics & Non-Profit Management
Week 7: August 19, 2025 - Virtual - Marketing Strategies, including LGBTQ+ Audiences
Week 8: August 26, 2025 - Virtual - Human Resources & Leadership
Week 9: September 2, 2025 - Virtual - Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) Practices
Week 10: September 9, 2025 - Virtual - Business Affinity Groups (BRGs, ERGs, TMNs)
Week 11: September 16, 2025 - Virtual - Public Policy & Workplace Safety
Week 12: September 30, 2025 - National Entrepreneur Center - Course Review & Networking
Course Timelines
Each cohort will meet one time weekly for two hours, for 12 weeks each quarter:
Winter Academy: January - March
Summer Academy: July - September
Classes
Class size - 20 - 30 students per cohort
Virtual or live held at the NEC
Cost: $199.00 per quarter
Instructors
Subject Matter Experts from the Corporate Equality Council, business community, and community leaders, donating their time and expertise.
Choose a Cohort Below to Register
January - March 2025
Registration Opens November 1, 2024
July - September 2025
Registration Opens March 16, 2025
We Welcome You to Join Us.
If you have any questions about the EMERGE program or would like to learn more about our organization,
please contact us or join us online.