Constellation
Build your community while you build your business. Constellation is a networking and peer support space for queer and trans entrepreneurs in Chicago.
What is Constellation?
Constellation provides networking, connection, and community for queer and trans business owners in the Chicagoland area, through structured, twice-monthly meetings, a monthly in-person happy hour, and regular social gatherings.
We’re building toward a world where queer and trans people can thrive in every part of their work and life. By resourcing queer and trans small business owners through community, business development, and skill-sharing, we help create vibrant neighborhoods, welcoming workplaces, and affirming services for everyone.
How it works
Meetings
1
We meet twice a month for 90-minute virtual meetings. Official members are asked to attend as many meetings as possible, sending a sub if you can’t be present. Prospective members may drop into a meeting at any time.
What to expect
2
Meetings are designed to grow deep ties between members so we can support each other as humans and business owners. Expect a mix of:
• Structured opportunities to connect and introduce your business in small and large groups
• Individual business highlights: members share an in-depth look at their work
• Skill-building workshops from members and outside guests, on things like social media, marketing, tax prep, and more
• Pitch practice: continue to refine how you talk about your business and your ideal client(s)
• Group coaching: we dig into one member’s business challenge together, with questions, support, and shared experience
Referrals & collaboration
3
Over time, knowing each other’s businesses deeply lets us pass referrals, offer insight into each other’s challenges, and find meaningful partners for collaboration.
Small by design
4
Membership is capped at 30 for the first year to keep things close-knit. We value depth over breadth.
Prospective members join for a 3-meeting introductory period before committing to full membership for the year. It’s a chance to see if the group is the right fit for you.
Membership dues are assessed on a sliding scale, and are free for members in their first year of business or with business income under $25,000. Dues cover meeting space, food and supplies, and a small mutual aid fund the group votes on. Lex and Kate don’t take profit from the group.
If cost is a concern, reach out. We’re committed to making the space accessible.
Membership & cost
who we are
*
who we are *
Members
FOUNDERS
Kate Harrington-Rosen
Lex Glade Detogne
Ready to join?
Registration takes less than a minute, and you'll get reminders before each meeting.
We hope you'll join us for gatherings focused on community, learning from each other, and building a strong network of queer- and trans-owned Chicago businesses.
Not quite ready to join a meeting, but want to stay in the loop? Join our email list to get updates about upcoming events and meetings, and jump in whenever you're ready.