Mission

The PEN, Metro DC’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce, mission is to advocate, promote and facilitate the success of LGBT businesses and their allies in the Metro DC region.

Vision

The diverse LGBT community is well-recognized as a key driver in a thriving Metro DC economy. This is happening because of PEN’s work to build synergies between LGBT business owners, LGBT professionals and organizations intent on doing business with the LGBT suppliers and professionals. Business equality for all is resulting in economic prosperity for all in the DC Metro region.

Values

• Engaged – it takes a connected group of people to fulfill the mission.
• Respectful – all people of all backgrounds are appreciated and served.
• Fun – advancing business is good and ought to be fun to do.
• Civic Minded – we care about our communities and their well-being is tied to our success.

Community Leadership

PEN builds bridges across greater Washington's LGBT and allies’ communities by bringing together men and women professionals of all ages, races and backgrounds to form a dynamic network that helps you succeed. Members work in a variety of fields, including technology, financial or strategic planning, marketing, public relations, advertising, arts, media, journalism, hospitality, architecture, consulting, real estate, law, banking, insurance, publishing, travel, specialty services, education, health care, government, associations, international affairs, and management.

Events

PEN hosts Network Thursday socials on the second Thursday of each month at an exciting venue in the Metro DC area. It also sponsors Power Breakfasts, Professional Development sessions, Business Networking and Referral Groups, and an Annual Awards Dinner. These networking opportunities enable you to meet old friends and new colleagues, share expertise, and forge new friendships.

PEN Is Inclusive

Joining PEN is easy and connects you with the community. You can also opt-into our free e-list for regular E-Newsletter and e-blast updates. Collaboration with and promotion of locally based businessesIn addition to individual and partner memberships, PEN welcomes business membership. Business members include Discovery Communications, Diversity Services, Inc., Eagle Bank, KPMG, LogoMotion, Marmillion and Company, Metro Weekly, The Washington Blade, the OtherPages, OmniStudio and Witeck-Combs Communications. Nonprofit organizations like Food & Friends, One In Ten, and Whitman Walker Clinic also belong. The Graphic Issue provides graphic design expertise. Image X Photography provides our event photography.