Our Focus Areas
Creating business opportunities for LGBTI+ businesses involves implementing targeted strategies and interventions designed to address the unique challenges and leverage the strengths of LGBTI+ entrepreneurs. Here are some key interventions to help foster growth and success within the LGBTI+ business community:
Diversity sensitization is a foundational process aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of diversity and inclusion issues within organizations or communities. Unlike broader diversity training, which often includes structured modules and skills-building exercises, sensitization focuses more on fostering empathy, reducing biases, and encouraging a culture of openness and respect. It is designed to help individuals recognize and appreciate the value of diverse perspectives and to become more aware of the challenges faced by people from different backgrounds.
Lobbying for effective enterprise development inclusion involves advocating for policies, practices, and initiatives that ensure marginalized and underrepresented businesses—such as those owned by LGBTI+ individuals—are integrated into economic development programs and receive equitable support. This advocacy seeks to address systemic barriers, promote fairness, and create opportunities for inclusive growth. To ensure we get a slice of the procurement cake.
Sessions are strategically designed to maximize the benefits of networking, enabling participants to forge valuable connections, leverage opportunities, and advance their business goals.
The LGBTI+ Business Network
South Africa's post-apartheid constitution stands as a beacon of hope, guaranteeing protection for the LGBTI+ community. Yet, despite these legal safeguards, a deep-seated culture of discrimination based on sexual orientation continues to afflict many areas of our society. The recent years have witnessed horrifying attacks and ongoing prejudice, underscoring the urgent need for change.
In response to this climate of exclusion and violence, the LGBTI+ Business Network was established in 2017. The Other Foundation played a crucial role in this initiative by bringing together a diverse group of LGBTI+ business owners and social entrepreneurs in Cape Town to address these pressing issues.
PLUS is dedicated to confronting the dual challenges of limited employment opportunities and pervasive workplace discrimination faced by the LGBTI+ community in South Africa. Our mission is to be a powerful advocate for South African lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex entrepreneurs. We strive to provide them with essential opportunities to learn, connect, and thrive in the business world.
By championing, promoting, supporting, and empowering LGBTI+ business owners, PLUS aims to contribute to redressing the structural and economic injustices of our past. Through our efforts, we envision a future where every LGBTI+ individual can not only overcome barriers but also prosper and make a significant impact on our society.
Who are we
• On 17 May 2017, a beacon of hope and resilience was ignited with the launch of PLUS. This pivotal moment was born out of heartfelt consultations conducted by The Other Foundation, where voices from every corner of the business world came together.
• The PLUS LGBTI+ Business Network is a dedicated non-profit organization with a mission that goes beyond business.
• Our purpose is deeply rooted in empowering and providing the LGBTI+ business community with invaluable opportunities to learn, connect and thrive, helping them navigate the complexities of the business world and achieve their dreams.
• We believe in the transformative power of inclusivity and the strength of a united community.
• Our commitment is to see each member of our community not only succeed but also find fulfillment and prosperity in their endeavors. Together, we are working towards a future where every LGBTI+ entrepreneur has the chance to shine and make their mark on the world.
