Memphis’s second LGBTQ+ Business Week brought local businesses, allies and customers together from 11 to 17 October 2026. The MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce is thanking everyone who took part, while encouraging residents to keep supporting inclusive businesses beyond the event and look ahead to November’s board elections and a planned holiday party.

Essential Takeaways

  • A week of community support: LGBTQ+ Business Week ran from 11 to 17 October 2026.
  • A broad local line-up: Participants included cafés, wellness providers, professional services, arts organisations and community groups.
  • Support doesn’t stop at the event: The Chamber encourages local shopping, referrals and sharing positive experiences throughout the year.
  • Members have a date to note: Board elections are scheduled for Thursday, 12 November 2026.
  • More chances to connect: A Chamber holiday party is in the works, with details still to come.

Memphis businesses got a week in the spotlight

A busy week of local activity gave LGBTQ+-owned businesses and their allies a chance to welcome customers and show off the range of services on offer across the Mid-South. In a community update, the MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce thanked participating businesses and the people who shopped, dined, booked services and spread the word.

The second annual LGBTQ+ Business Week ran from 11 to 17 October 2026. The Chamber’s official event page describes it as a celebration of LGBTQ+-owned and operated businesses, alongside allied businesses supporting the community.

From cafés to galleries, the line-up was wide-ranging

The participating businesses covered plenty of ground, from food and hospitality to wellness, professional services and the arts. The roster included Butteriffic Bakery & Cafe, Coyote Soul Massage, Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Java Cabana, POSE Aesthetics & Functional Wellness and Underground Art.

Focus’s event feature also describes the week as a way for residents to discover and support LGBTQ+-owned and allied businesses. That mix matters: a neighbourhood café, a wellness appointment and a visit to an arts organisation may feel like different kinds of outing, but each can help connect customers with local businesses.

Keep supporting inclusive businesses after the event

Business Week may have lasted seven days, but the Chamber’s invitation is a year-round one. Its president encourages people to shop locally, refer friends and share good experiences, simple ways to help businesses stay visible beyond a time-limited promotion.

That longer view fits the event’s wider purpose. Focus reported that local businesses can create jobs, support neighbourhoods, bring people together and contribute to the regional economy. The Chamber’s listing also included event offers and a passport activity, but those promotions applied to the stated October dates, so they shouldn’t be assumed to continue.

November elections put members in the driving seat

The Chamber’s next membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 12 November, when members are due to take part in board elections. The Chamber’s election notice says candidates would be presented to members after the application window closed.

For members, the election is a practical chance to help shape the organisation’s future. The Chamber says its work includes events, programmes and support for LGBTQ+-owned and allied businesses across Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas.

A holiday gathering is on the way

There’s another reason for members to keep an eye on the Chamber’s announcements: plans are under way for a holiday party. Details are still being finalised, with updates expected through the organisation’s social media channels.

The Chamber also invites LGBTQ+ professionals, business owners and allies across Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas to join and get involved. Its wider work includes networking, education and advocacy, giving members and supporters more ways to build connections beyond a single event week.

Keep supporting local businesses, and watch the Chamber’s channels for what’s next.

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