Empowering LGBTQ+ Businesses
In 2024 we made history creating the first law in the United States that recognizes LGBTQ+ owned businesses. We are now focused on maximizing the opportunities made available to small and midsize LGBTQ+ businesses in the state. Evolvere goes beyond offering networking opportunities to small and midsize businesses in the LGBTQ+ and Ally communities. As one of the architects of the new law recognizing LGBTQ+ owned businesses, our mission is to certify 5,000 LGBTQ+ businesses in New Jersey by 2030 and build the world's largest transnational trade network for LGBTQ+ enterprises. By fostering a pro-business environment, we aim to make New Jersey a hub for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, innovators, and allied businesses.
The 5:30 Project
5,000
Certified LGBTQ+ Businesses
42
Scheduled
Events
20,000+
Innovators, and Allied Businesses
100%
Networking Opportunities
The 5:30 Project is to certify 5,000 LGBTQ+ owned businesses in NJ to develop a solid LGBTQ+ business coalition that can work in support of pro business legislation and issue that affect the business environment in the state of NJ.
What We Do
Certifying LGBTQ+ Businesses
The 5:30 Project is to certify 5,000 LGBTQ+ owned businesses in NJ to develop a solid LGBTQ+ business coalition that can work in support of pro business legislation and issue that affect the business environment in the state of NJ.
LGBTQ+ Certification:
The 5:30 Project is to certify 5,000 LGBTQ+ owned businesses in NJ to develop a solid LGBTQ+ business coalition that can work in support of pro business legislation and issue that affect the business environment in the state of NJ.
Education:
Evolvere will help educate business owners on the opportunities made available by state certification, including state grants through the ED but additionally, we will be available to speak on the 2024 Disparity Study, and why a knowledge of state and local government can help in developing or growing your business. In 2025 as the country is moving away from DEl, we can speak on how DEI is more than an acronym it is good business.
Networking:
Evolvere is proud to host the annual World Cup networking event at American Dream in partnership with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, but additionally we will host events across the state in partnership with partner corporations that support our 5:30 Project and are dedicated to growing a diverse supplier base.
Corporate Outreach:
Evolvere will work closely with NJ corporations by offering the opportunity to brand the Certification Labs, Networking events and Educational events throughout the state and develop programing that will help corporations meet their goals.
Government Outreach:
Our passion lies in creating a lasting impact by advocating for LGBTQ+ businesses and fostering an environment that promotes growth, innovation, and collaboration.
Student Outreach
Evolvere is available to speak or participate in college and university events, both business and LGBTQ+
Why Partner Now?
The passage of New Jersey's landmark law recognizing LGBTQ+ owned businesses was just the beginning. To truly grow the LGBTQ+ business community in the state, we must leverage this law by providing essential resources and support. Achieving this mission will require substantial funding, but the impact will be tangible—enabling corporations to connect with suppliers who were previously inaccessible or overlooked before 2024.