Programming Board Growth

StartOut Programming Board (PB) members provide access to educational and engaging content across virtual and in-person events.

We are grateful to our members who wish to give back to StartOut by sharing their expertise through our programming boards. 

We connect mission-aligned leaders looking to amplify StartOut’s impact through shared networks, collaborating on events, and celebrating LGBTQ+ entrepreneurial success. As a member of our StartOut community, you will join our efforts to provide support to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs so we can all thrive.

Welcome to StartOut’s Growth Programming Board 

The StartOut Growth PB works to provide professional development and network expansion for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneur Business Growth. Our events focus on four main topic areas – Education, Social, Wellness, and Service. We are excited for you to be a part of our community! 

Who We Are

Romica Devi

Growth Programming Board Co-Chair

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James Knesek

Growth Programming Board Co-Chair

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Roger Cameron

Chris Foley

Joelle Gomez

Katie Latham

Mike Nguyen

Oscar Pedroso

Doug Wilson

What We Do

The events below highlight some of our signature programs to showcase the ways we like to engage with our community.

You can learn more about all of StartOut’s upcoming events here to RSVP for future opportunities.

Why We Do It

"StartOut is the first organization where I've had a chance to volunteer on a professional board. And I love it! Specifically, I've been working as part of the Growth Stage board to bring new opportunities to LGBTQ+ founders to share their stories and better support their ventures. This is something I'm truly passionate about as I have my own company. StartOut has been amazingly supportive during my journey building an education tech company. As a newbie on the board, I've had so much fun working with everyone. Everyone in the group comes together to discuss ideas, plan events, and help support one another. I'm looking forward to continuing the great work that is very much needed in our community."
Oscar Pedroso
Oscar PedrosoThimble.io Founder, New York, USA
"I stumbled across StartOut, by attending a fabulous webinar. I then participated in a few, and saw the opportunity to contribute myself. This, in itself, has helped me, but I also love the support from my board members, and the wider organisation. I think it's really important the organisation succeeds and helps businesses grow. This is critical in Australia, and, I'm sure, in the USA and other countries. Collaborating with positive, good minds is really constructive.”
Roger Cameron
Roger CameronSafer Business Growth Founder; Melbourne, AU
“I found StartOut in 2021 after a quick search for resources to connect with LGBTQ+ founders and investors. The StartOut community thrives on its growing list of volunteers and sponsors who provide service and support to LGBTQ+ business founders and investors. As a volunteer since 2022, I have made meaningful lasting connections and friends who provide support and encouragement as I continue to build and grow my business.”
James Knesek
James KnesekByTheJob, Inc Founder; Washington, USA

How You Can Get Involved

Are you passionate about creating a positive impact on the world? Do you believe in the power of collective action? We invite you to become a part of our cause and make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can achieve great things.

People like you are the driving force behind every success story. Whether you’re an experienced volunteer or just starting out, we provide a platform for you to contribute your skills, time, and energy to causes that align with your values.

Apply below to become a volunteer or to speak at one of our virtual events

Apply Here

Why Volunteer With Us?

  • Meaningful Impact: Every action you take as a volunteer has a direct, tangible impact on the lives of individuals and communities. Through our curated events, we bring knowledge and education on a variety of topics related to the Growth Programming Board for LGBTQ Entreprenuers.
  • Personal Growth: Volunteering is not just about giving; it's also about receiving. As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to learn new skills, gain invaluable experience, and broaden your perspectives. Be it improving your leadership abilities, enhancing your problem-solving skills, or fostering your creativity.
  • Build Connections and Network: Joining our cause allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your vision for a better world. Our diverse community of passionate volunteers creates a space for collaboration, networking, and building lifelong friendships. Together, we foster a supportive and empowering environment that fuels motivation and amplifies our impact.
  • Get continuing education credits: If you belong to a professional organization that requires a certain number of continuing education and volunteer hours per qualification period, then you may be able to use your StartOut volunteer hours, webinar attendance, or webinar creation and presentations for those professional credits.

Stay Connected

Join our Growth Programming Board Slack Community Board to meet other LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, stay up to date with our upcoming events, and engage with us directly. 

Join Today

Join StartOut

Since 2009, StartOut has built a community of over 28,000 members. Every year, we provide support to over 700 individual founders. We connect them to expertise, peers, community, and capital. This powerful combination of financial support, skills development, and community contributes to helping fuel innovation, wealth generation and equal access to economic opportunity. Join our growing community today.

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