Building Stronger Brands: Insights from Our Recent LGBTBE® Roundtable

Our recent LGBTBE® Roundtable brought together business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals for a thoughtful conversation about what it takes to build a strong brand and a marketing strategy that can support long-term growth.

Attendees had the opportunity to connect over lunch before the program began, creating space for conversation, networking, and shared insight among professionals from across the Chamber community.

The panel featured Jess Dyroff and Katie Koch of Brightside Creative alongside Kim Kramer and Michael Mackie of Square Peg Marketing & Branding. Together, they explored the realities of modern marketing, including how businesses can approach budgeting, measure return on investment, and prioritize strategies that create meaningful and sustainable results rather than short-term visibility alone.

A key focus throughout the discussion was the importance of building a strong foundation before jumping into tactics. Panelists shared practical guidance on brand positioning, long-term planning, and the value of understanding not only how a business markets itself, but why those decisions matter over time.

The conversation also addressed the unique experiences many minority-owned businesses face when navigating broader markets and balancing authenticity with visibility. Through honest discussion and real-world examples, attendees gained valuable perspective on identity in branding, audience connection, and preparing their marketing strategies for the future.

Thank you to our panelists for sharing their expertise and insight with our community, and to everyone who joined us for an engaging afternoon of learning, conversation, and connection.

Special thanks to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for their ongoing sponsorship and their continued commitment to supporting diverse and growing businesses in our community.