Cleveland LGBT chamber of commerce builds bridges to mainstream business organizations

From a press release from the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce:

NGLCC affiliate Plexus and the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE), Northeast Ohio's largest chamber of commerce with 15,000 members to date, recently announced a new partnership that will bring benefits to all members. Both organizations recognize the importance of supporting the development and growth of small business as a foundation of Northeast Ohio's economic sector.

"The current economic conditions have re-energized a strong spirit of collaboration among business leaders," said Sam McClure, Director of Affiliate Relations for the NGLCC. "Business organizations must be strategic in the ways they advocate for their members. COSE and Plexus are demonstrating that collaborative spirit in a powerful and strategic way that will foster a stronger and more fully inclusive business community."

Plexus members can now obtain duel Plexus/COSE membership and gain instant access to the benefits of both organizations, including educational opportunities and discounts on an array of products and services. Additionally, the new partnership provides enhanced visibility and presence at networking events.

"The COSE Plexus partnership is another example of the ways in which Cleveland is opening its doors and creating an inclusive environment for all diverse businesses including LGBT businesses," said Eric Lutzo, President of Plexus. "It creates an opportunity for LGBT and allied businesses to dialogue, build inclusive strategies, and do business together."

Above all, the partnership makes it even easier for members to demonstrate their commitment to a region that values inclusive business practices.

"This partnership reaffirms the role of Plexus - the LGBT Chamber of Commerce - as a partner in the economic development of Northeast Ohio. It also places Plexus and its members at the sourcing table for the nearly $2 billion in economic development occurring in Cleveland over the next 3 years. "said Lutzo.

In July 2009, COSE and Medical Mutual of Ohio changed regulations to allow same sex domestic partners to apply for health insurance coverage, a benefit that was not previously available to Plexus. Actions like these mirrors the best practices businesses across America are instituting to recognize diversity.