Do you have to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender to join Out Business Builders?

No. We are an inclusive group. While the majority of our members identify as LGBT, we welcome everyone.

When and how often do you meet?

We meet every other Thursday morning. We gather at 8:15am, our meeting starts at 8:30am and ends by 10am.

Where do you meet?

Currently, we meet at ElevatedNY, 1120 Sixth Ave. (between W. 43rd and 44th Streets), 4th floor.

Do you practice “one seat per-profession/specialty”?

Yes, we do. We maintain an environment where members can freely give referrals. Having two members in the same “seat” would interfere with that goal.

I travel a lot. How many absences are allowed?

Members should have no more than two unexcused absences in any consecutive 6-month period. If you know you need to miss a meeting in advance, you should arrange for a substitute to present your commercial for you. When you send a sub, you won’t be counted as absent.

Can I visit as a guest?

Please do! As a guest, you may visit a maximum of two meetings in any 365-day period. The current guest fee is $20, payable via Zelle or at the door to cover breakfast expenses. Contact us to find out when our next meeting is taking place.

How much are dues?

Current Out Business Builders dues are $200 per quarter.

Can I be a member of another networking group if I am a member of Out Business Builders?

Yes. We do not have any restrictions on participating in other networking groups. We do ask that you stay committed to supporting the business growth and networks of our members.

Do I have to join Manhattan Chamber of Commerce to be a member of Out Business Builders?

Yes. All of our members must be Business members in good standing of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. 

Manhattan Chamber of Commerce annual dues are $125 for membership, plus a BRG fee of $100. www.ManhattanCC.org

As a member, you are entitled to fully participate in all the programs, including networking events, that MCC offers to help you grow your business.

How long before I might see business from being a member?

Every business is different. Some types of businesses, such as health care professionals and IT specialists, tend to get referrals quickly. Mortgage, legal and financial service referrals usually take longer. But the faster and more thoroughly you engage with members of our group, the more likely it is that you will get referrals.

Of course, like any networking group, we cannot guarantee referral business.

Missing a Meeting?

If you need to miss a meeting, please do your best to arrange for a substitute. Your sub will present your commercial for you and represent your business at the meeting. There is no visitor fee, and you will not be counted as absent.