We hold the firm belief that small businesses are critical for our local community and economy. Diverse entrepreneurs with different backgrounds and lived experiences are even more necessary to build spaces and opportunities for others around them. This can be in building equitable jobs, safe spaces, dedicated approaches to a unique problem, and more.
For Pride Month, we're spotlighting a few local LGBTQ-owned businesses doing just that. These following small businesses are making a big impact in our communities and beyond:
Repair Revolution
More than just an auto repair shop, they're on a mission to disrupt the entire industry. Owned by Eli Alison, the LGBTQ-owned and operated shop thrives on its transparency offered to its customers. Beyond their services, they create job, training, and support opportunities for the queer community - a community often under-represented or even unwelcome in the automotive industry.
“You can make an impact no matter what you’re doing; we’re more than just an auto repair shop... I think it’s something that marginalized communities do well – support marginalized businesses.” - Eli Alison
Simone Pin Productions
A women of color-owned production company creating thought-provoking performances. Led by Shadae Simone and Annya Pin, they are passionate about ensuring performers of color have their own space. Additionally, they hire other entrepreneurs of color to support their production needs from music to sound and design.
"We, ourselves as dancers of color, have experienced our own challenges in finding our voice and platform to perform, and we want to promote a culture and space where diversity is celebrated." - Annya & Shadae
Aide-Mémoire Jewelry
A jewelry shop that creates handmade, eco-friendly jewelry. Owner and designer Aran Galligan, founded Aide-Mémoire with the mission to create future heirlooms in a socially and environmentally responsible way. The shop creates a safe space for couples and persons of all backgrounds to find and discover jewelry. Particularly in supporting the search for wedding/engagement rings and creating a no-fear journey for those seeking a memorable piece. Additionally, they highlight and sell designs by other creators.
“We’re really focused on highlighting BIPOC, LGBTQ, and woman makers as well as things that are more sustainable. Products that are either to reduce waste or made from recycled materials,” - Aran Galligan
Pink Moon Farm
More than just another farm, Pink Moon Farm exists as a space where animals, plants, people, and the community built around it interact in a sustainable and collaborative system. Owner Grayson Crane not only grows quality produce, but aims to create an open and accepting environment for other members of the LGBTQ+ community to experience the joy and beauty of farming.
“My goal is to build this business in a way that is both environmentally sustainable, financially sustainable and creates meaningful on-ramps for folks who are in my community that want access to farming." - Grayson Crane
Discover more LGBTQ-owned businesses in the PNW by exploring our small business directory here.
Add your LGBTQ-owned business to our business directory to get found online here.
Looking to launch or grow your business? Get started with free one-on-one business coaching here.
