In a bid to enhance the efforts of the queer business community in Kenya, the Gay And Lesbian Coalition Of Kenya (GALCK), has come up with an innovative way to boost queer owned and queer friendly businesses. This has been done by listing all willing participants under one database. According to the organization, the goal is to link buyers and sellers with products and services as a way of building each other up.

Those interested in joining the network are required to register their business website, business email, phone number and service industry. Other requirements include the business location and a portfolio card.

Some of the businesses that will be under this database include, art, catering, cleaning services, electricians, graphic design, hair (salons and barbers), interior design, makeup artistry, performing artists, photography, plumbing, social media marketing, stylists, videography, woodwork among others.

According to research by Open For Business consortium, the continued homophobic culture costs the country at least $1.3 billion every year. The losses can be traced back to lost tourism revenue, poor health and unemployment of LGBTIQ people. Initiatives such as the one by GALCKE if well utilized and funded can bridge the financial gap.

Queer and queer friendly businesses that would like to be part of this initiative should send their info to [email protected] for assistance.