How This Small Business Owner Is Celebrating Pride Month

Kelly Rosenblatt
Former Senior Manager, Small Business Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Published

June 20, 2024

Drawing on more than 20 years of expertise in business management and entrepreneurship, Bill Rossi has excelled in many roles over the course of his career. In 2005, he founded Rossi Enterprises in Chicago, where he leverages his unique experience to help companies recover and thrive in their respective industries.

Rossi specializes in operations, finance, accounting, marketing, risk management, and human resources, frequently collaborating with startups and small to mid-size companies to achieve success. He is also a member of the U.S. Chamber's Small Business Council and a judge for the CO—100 awards program honoring small businesses.

We sat down with him to talk about his career, how he became a small business owner, and his advice for others.

What was your path to entrepreneurship and the history of your small business?

I've had a diverse and exciting journey into entrepreneurship over the past 18 years. As a Fractional CFO/COO, I've had the privilege of working with over 15 companies, gaining valuable experience and insights along the way.

My path to entrepreneurship began with a deep passion for innovation and a drive to make a positive impact in the business world. After years of working in various leadership roles and a slight nudge from a business colleague and friend, I decided to take the leap and start my own small business. Drawing on my experiences and lessons learned from working with different companies, I founded my own venture with a clear vision and determination to succeed.

Over the years, my small business has evolved and grown, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a dynamic market environment. I believe entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business but also about continuous learning, adaptation, and resilience.

How does Rossi Enterprises help support the LGBTQ+ Community?

As an entrepreneur deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, Rossi Enterprises takes pride in actively contributing to LGBTQ+ causes and initiatives. Rossi Enterprises is the only LGBTQ+ certified business by the NGLCC in Washington, D.C., that does what I do for my clients.

At Rossi Enterprises, we actively support mentorship programs for the LGBTQ+ community, providing guidance, support, and opportunities for individuals to thrive and succeed. I personally share my experiences as an LGBT individual online, aiming to inspire others and promote awareness and understanding. I’ve led numerous Biz Pitch Competitions as a Mentor for the Illinois LGBT Chamber of Commerce and offered continued advice to my mentees long after the competition ended.

Moreover, we prioritize purchasing products and services from LGBTQ+-owned businesses whenever possible, contributing to the economic empowerment and visibility of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. By championing diversity and inclusivity in our business practices and community engagement, Rossi Enterprises strives to make a positive impact and create a more supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community.

What does Pride mean to you, and how do you celebrate it?

Pride, to me, is all about celebrating the beauty of authenticity and the freedom to live life fully and unapologetically as your true self. It's about embracing every aspect of who you are and knowing that you deserve to have all the joys and blessings that life has to offer, regardless of sexual orientation.

I celebrate Pride by honoring my journey, expressing gratitude for the love and support of my partner and children, cherishing the joys of family and faith, and standing proudly in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. I participate in Pride events, advocate for equality and inclusion, and strive to create a more accepting and affirming world for all individuals to thrive and be celebrated for who they are. Pride, to me, is a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that everyone deserves to live equally, authentically, and happily.

How can people show their support for LGBTQ+-owned small businesses all year long?

Supporting LGBTQ+-owned small businesses is a wonderful way to promote diversity and economic empowerment within the community. Here are some ways people can show their support for LGBTQ+-owned small businesses all year:

1. Spread the word: Share information about LGBTQ+-owned businesses with your friends, family, and social networks. Word of mouth can be a powerful tool in raising awareness and driving support.

2. Attend events: Participate in local events, markets, and fairs where LGBTQ+-owned businesses showcase their products and services. This provides direct support to these businesses and helps them gain visibility.

3. Engage online: Follow and engage with LGBTQ+-owned businesses on social media platforms. Like, comment, and share their posts to help amplify their reach and impact.

4. Collaborate and partner: Consider collaborating with LGBTQ+-owned businesses for events, projects, or initiatives. Building partnerships can create mutually beneficial opportunities for growth and success.

5. Provide feedback: Offer constructive feedback and reviews for LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Positive reviews and testimonials can help attract more customers and enhance their reputation.

Remember, we are not just LGBTQ+ in June of every year–we are LGBTQ+ 365 days a year, so please support small business consistently throughout the year. It makes a difference!

To learn more about Rossi, visit his website.