Written by Samantha Royle, Marketing Specialist, Business Link
Why Being Out Still Feels Risky
In today’s political climate, being visibly queer—especially as a business owner—can feel like a risk. But every time we show up as ourselves, we reclaim space that was never freely given.
As history has taught us, the existence of 2SLGBTQIA+ people is an act of resilience in itself—and, unfortunately, a necessity.
From Shame to Empowerment
As a young trans woman in this world, I’ve often found myself code-switching or living stealth—not only in my personal life but also in professional spaces. Not only out of shame, but because I worried that being loud and unapologetically queer would be considered unprofessional or I’d be taken less seriously.
But guess what? I was wrong.
The most rewarding work I’ve ever done was co-organizing the 10th annual Pride festival in my hometown. Before that, I had never truly been part of the queer community. I planned to stay behind the scenes, but when I began representing the organization publicly and on social media—hiding was no longer an option.
I was scared and ashamed—I didn’t want to broadcast my identity to the world. But there was no need to be. My work spoke for itself, and my visibility led to multiple job offers as an event and marketing consultant.
Letting Go of the Mask
It’s not that I stopped caring what people thought—I’m human. But I started prioritizing my identity and my truth. I learned that living stealth (while still sometimes necessary for my safety) was a disservice to myself and my potential.
When I stopped hiding, I could finally focus on what I was building instead of spending all my energy pretending to be “normal.” The constant exhaustion I carried in both my personal and work life lifted. I could breathe again.
Why Authenticity Matters in Business
So why is it so, so crucial for queer people to show up as ourselves in business?
Because our lived experiences, our trauma, and our authenticity are superpowers. Cliché? Maybe. But think about it:
We feel more comfortable in spaces where we feel safe and represented. For example, when you go to a restaurant and feel welcomed by the staff or see a Pride flag in the window—whether you’re queer or an ally—you’re more likely to return.
Showing up authentically also signals confidence, and confidence builds trust. That trust—whether with clients, customers, or colleagues—can make or break a business relationship. Imagine hiring a public speaking coach. Would you feel more confident learning from someone who speaks with energy, owns their identity, and connects authentically—or someone who seems unsure of themselves and guarded?
The Economic Power of Queer Communities
The data backs it up too. In recent years rainbow-washing, has become extremely prevalent due to the financial benefits of serving the queer community. It is time to take that power back.
According to a 2022 Ipsos survey, nearly 30% of Gen Z adults identify as LGBTQIA+, highlighting the growing diversity of the next generation of consumers and entrepreneurs.
In the U.S. alone, the LGBTQIA+ community holds over $1.4 trillion in annual spending power, according to the Pride Co-op’s 2021 consumer data and is cited as one of the largest growing markets in the USA, and that figure doesn’t include the economic impact of allies who actively support queer-owned businesses.
This market has value—and it deserves more than rainbow logos in June.
The Reality Isn’t Always Kind
Still, it’s not all rainbows—no pun intended—and butterflies.
As a white, passing-trans woman, I acknowledge that I’ve been shielded from many of the challenges others in our community face. That privilege has made parts of my journey easier. That’s exactly why safe, visible representation matters.
A 2021 report by the Movement Advancement Project (MAP) found that 46% of LGBTQ-owned businesses didn’t receive any of the financing they applied for, compared to just 35% of non-LGBTQ businesses. One-third of respondents said this was because financial institutions didn’t support “businesses like theirs.”
Beyond funding, many queer entrepreneurs face staffing shortages, low profits, and real safety concerns. We like to imagine LGBTQIA+ businesses thriving in big, progressive cities—but many operate in rural areas or communities that aren’t always safe or welcoming.
Privilege, Perspective, and Progress
Still, giving up isn’t the answer.
Profit is essential for a sustainable business, yes—but peace within yourself is essential for a fulfilling life. Accepting and loving yourself is crucial to bringing your best self to your business. When you do that, you create your best results.
Whether you’re out, stealth, or somewhere in between—your story matters. Let’s keep building spaces where we can thrive, support each other, and show the world the strength of living out loud.
Next steps for Queer Business Owners
- Embrace your visibility on your own terms. Share your story and identity in ways that feel safe and authentic for you. You don’t have to be “out” 100% of the time—do what feels right.
- Find your community. Seek out queer business networks, mentorship programs, and support groups. Connecting with others who understand your experiences can boost confidence and open doors.
- Advocate for funding and resources. Research grants, loans, and organizations that prioritize LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve.
- Prioritize self-care and safety. Navigating business as a queer person can be exhausting. Set boundaries, take breaks, and protect your mental health.
- Celebrate your strengths. Your lived experience, resilience, and authenticity are powerful assets that set your business apart.
🌈 Terminology Used in This Blog
- 2SLGBTQIA+ – An acronym that stands for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other diverse gender and sexual identities. The “2S” (Two-Spirit) is placed first to recognize Indigenous traditions and identities in Canada.
- Queer – An umbrella term used by many to describe diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. While historically used as a slur, many in the community have reclaimed it.
- Code-switching – Adjusting language, behavior, or appearance depending on the environment, often to increase safety or social acceptance.
- Stealth – When a transgender person does not disclose their trans identity in daily life.
- Passing – Being perceived by others as cisgender or straight, whether intentionally or not.
- Rainbow-washing – When organizations or companies use LGBTQ+ symbols (like rainbow flags) for marketing or public image without meaningful support or inclusion of the community.
Language is always evolving, and individuals may have different relationships with these terms. This glossary is offered for context and understanding.
