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Honoring and recognizing the Independence Business Alliance (IBA) for being named the 2025 National LGBT Chamber of the Year by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).
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WHEREAS, The Independence Business Alliance (IBA), Greater Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, was founded in 2007 with a vision of building a more inclusive and equitable economy for LGBTQ+ businesses and professionals across the region; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding, the IBA has grown from an idea shared among five individuals into a thriving chamber of over three hundred members and eighteen high-level corporate partners, providing meaningful connections, access, and resources for Greater Philadelphia’s
LGBTQ+ and allied business communities; and
WHEREAS, In August 2025, the Independence Business Alliance was honored by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) as the National Affiliate Chamber of the Year, recognizing its outstanding community leadership, advocacy, promotion of LGBTBE certification, and innovative programming that strengthens the LGBTQ+ business community; and
WHEREAS, Under the leadership of CEO Zach Wilcha and Board President Mars Sharrock, as well as past board members and founders, the IBA has become a model for inclusive economic development, advancing the idea that entrepreneurship and steady employment in affirming spaces are essential paths to self-determination for LGBTQ+ people, and that a diverse, inclusive workforce and customer base are vital to a robust economy; and
WHEREAS, The IBA’s commitment to equity and innovation is further reflected in its role as a founding member of the Diverse Chambers Coalition of Philadelphia, alongside the local Asian American, African American, and Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, and through its representation on Philadelphia’s Tax Reform Commission; and
WHEREAS, The IBA also became the first Chamber in the country to house an initiative dedicated to the economic uplift of transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) people through TransWork, a groundbreaking program that connects TGNC job seekers and entrepreneurs to affirming employment and business opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Through its programs, partnerships, and advocacy, the IBA continues to foster a regional economy grounded in opportunity, equity, and belonging for all, making Greater Philadelphia a national leader in LGBTQ+ business advancement and inclusion; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors and recognizes the Independence Business Alliance for being named the 2025 National LGBT Chamber of the Year by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and for its leadership in advancing economic opportunity and inclusion for Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ business community.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Independence Business Alliance as a sign of the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
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