SXSW 2026: The Queer Economy in Focus - Resilience, Leadership, and Opportunity in a Changing Climate

Description

Join the Austin LGBT Chamber and the NGLCC for a conversation on the Queer Economy!

In this candid one-on-one conversation with Justin Nelson, Co-Founder and President of the National LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), reflects on the current state of the queer economy at a moment of significant change. Drawing on insights from NGLCC’s second groundbreaking LGBTQ+ Economic Report, the discussion explores how LGBTQ+ and allied entrepreneurs and business leaders are demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and strategic leadership amid evolving political, economic, and corporate landscapes. The conversation offers a thoughtful look at emerging trends, the economic power of LGBTQ+ and allied businesses, and what the data reveals about the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of inclusive entrepreneurship.

🗓️ Monday, March 16th, 2026
📍 Hotel Indigo's Urban Pour Social
⏰ 10:30am - 12pm 

(FREE Taco bar while supplies last beginning at 10:30am. Conversation will begin at 11:00am.)

ASL Interpreation Services are provided by dozanü innovations. 

Entry: 

This event is open to both badgeholders and non-badgeholders. SXSW Badges get Primary Access to the Event. Public general admission gets Secondary Access. Venue subject to capacity.

About Justin Nelson: 

Justin Nelson, Co-Founder & President of the National LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), is a pivotal figure in the global business community, advocating for the economic interests of LGBTQ+ people, their allies and their businesses. Under his leadership, NGLCC has become the largest LGBTQ+ business development and economic advocacy organization worldwide, securing groundbreaking statewide inclusion victories and fostering over 50 U.S. and 30 international affiliate chambers representing over 40 countries on five continents.

In 2022, Justin was appointed to serve on the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Council on Underserved Communities, a role he previously held during the Obama Administration. He regularly consults with senior U.S. leaders in Congress and previous presidential administrations as well as multinational corporations to advance inclusive business practices. Justin frequently speaks across the country and globally on economic opportunity.

Justin’s strategic vision also led to the creation of the National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC), championing diverse communities through an integrated and strategic alliance among top diverse business organizations representing LGBTQ+, women, ethnic and racial minorities, people with disabilities, and veteran-owned businesses. His contributions have earned him recognition twice in OUT Magazine’s Top 100, CEO Magazine’s Top Leaders We Admire, Washingtonian’s Washington, DC’s 500 Most Influential People, the Allied Champion from the National Veteran Owned Business Association (NaVOBA), and the Global Disability Champion from Disability:IN, among numerous other recognitions.

With his work at NGLCC, his previous work in Federal Affairs at the American Academy of Ophthalmology and extensive experience on Capitol Hill, Justin’s expertise continues to shape public policy and corporate inclusion strategies.