Civitas opens nominations for inaugural LGBTQ+ Awards Ga(y)la in Louisville

Civitas, the LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce for Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley, announced that nominations are now open for its inaugural Awards Ga(y)la, set to take place on March 14, 2025, at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville, Kentucky. The event will recognize outstanding contributions to LGBTQ+ business excellence and community leadership in the region.

“LGBTQ+ owned businesses are integral to our communities and economy,” said Bryce Cariel, Executive Director of Civitas. “Through these awards, we aim to honor, uplift, and celebrate their incredible contributions.”

The awards will honor those organizations and individuals who have helped to reduce barriers for LGBTQ+-owned businesses, fuel economic growth in the region, and grow and advocate for inclusive workplaces and supply chains.

“We know we have a strong, active, engaging, smart LGBTQIA+ community in our region,” said JP Davis, Civitas board member and founder of JP Davis Partners. “We are excited to showcase that talent.”  

Civitas was formed in 2019 and is the LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce for Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley. It is the regional affiliate for NGLCC, the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce.  NGLCC is largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ+ people, and the exclusive certifying body for LGBTQ+-owned businesses.

The award categories are:

• Certified Business of the Year – Honors a business who has received their NGLCC LGBTQ+ Business Enterprise certification and is making their mark on the business community in the region.
• Entrepreneur of the Year – Recognizes an LGBTQ+ business owner who is growing their business and providing value to their business venture.  This person’s strategic vision, business acumen, and talent combine to meet their clients’ complex needs. 
• Corporation of the Year – Honors one corporation (500+ employees) who has demonstrated a sustained or concerted effort to the inclusion of LGBTQ+-owned businesses in their supply chain and/or LGBTQ+-friendly policies in their workplaces.
• Community Engagement of the Year – This award is open to either a small business, non-profit, corporation, or individual who has shown leadership and commitment to improving life for LGBTQ+ residents and businesses in the region.
• Non-Profit Excellence of the Year – This award honors a 501(c)3 organization in the region whose commitment to furthering the cause of LGBTQ+ rights and families stands apart from the rest.

Nominations can be submitted online at Civitas LGBTQ Award Nominations. The nomination period is open until February 24, 2025. Individuals and organizations based in Kentucky, Indiana, or Ohio are eligible to participate. At least one letter of recommendation is required. A panel of judges will review all submissions, and winners will be celebrated at the Awards Ga(y)la dinner.

Tickets for the Awards Ga(y)la are now on sale. Ticket options include dinner, VIP reception, and after-party, and may be purchased at https://events.com/r/en_US/tickets/inaugural-lgbtq-awards-ceremony-dinner-louisville-march-948882.