Item 14: Draft Recommendation — original pdf

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. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20260309-014: Entrepreneurial Grants for LGBTQIA+ Businesses WHEREAS, local LGBTQIA+-owned businesses contribute significantly to Austin’s cultural identity, neighborhood character, tourism appeal, and economic vitality; and WHEREAS, small businesses owned by LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs may face barriers to accessing capital and business development resources, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty and rising operating costs; and WHEREAS, City initiatives supporting historically underserved entrepreneurs have demonstrated success in fostering business stability, local job creation, and neighborhood economic resilience; and WHEREAS, responsible tools such as no-interest loans, technical assistance, and targeted entrepreneurial support can strengthen small business sustainability while maintaining fiscal prudence; and WHEREAS, continued and expanded support for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs aligns with the City’s commitments to inclusive economic development, small business resilience, and cultural district preservation; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council expand and continue entrepreneurial support initiatives within existing City economic development programs to strengthen access to capital and technical assistance for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission recommends allocating $200,000 to enhance no- interest loan capacity and related entrepreneurial assistance within the City’s existing small business support infrastructure. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that program implementation include targeted outreach and culturally competent engagement to ensure equitable access for LGBTQIA+ owned businesses, particularly small, locally owned, and community-serving enterprises that may face barriers to traditional financing. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Commission requests reporting on participation rates, loan performance, and business stabilization outcomes to evaluate program impact and inform future economic development strategies. . Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Seconded By: Attest: _____________________________________________ Ryan Sperling, LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Staff Liaison