Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors Announces $350,000 Grant from the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.
New York, NY—The Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors, established in June 2022, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a $350,000 grant from the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. This one-time award is designed to support the Association’s efforts to increase LGBTQ+ representation in corporate boardrooms across the United States.
The grant will enhance the Association’s core programs, focusing on mentorship, board readiness, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ professionals seeking to serve on public and private company boards. The funding is a significant milestone for the Association. It enables the organization to scale its impact, build sustainable operations, and advance its mission of achieving diverse and inclusive governance in corporate America.
“This grant is a game-changer for us,” said the Association’s Board chair, Betsy Bernard. “It represents not just an investment in our organization but in the future of corporate diversity. LGBTQ+ individuals account for over 7% of the U.S. population, yet their representation in boardrooms remains critically low. The Packard Foundation’s support will allow us to address this gap and ensure that LGBTQ+ voices are heard at the highest levels of corporate governance.”
The Association plans to use this momentum to build its membership base further, strengthen its network, and continue its work to raise awareness about the benefits of diverse boards.
Key Areas of Impact:
- Networking, Mentorship & Coaching: Expanding programs to support LGBTQ+ candidates’ journey to the boardroom.
- Board Preparation: Resources, training, and networking opportunities are provided to ensure board-ready LGBTQ+ professionals are equipped for service.
- Advocacy & Awareness: Engaging with policymakers, corporate leaders, and governance bodies to promote LGBTQ+ representation on corporate boards.
“This funding comes at a critical time,” said Rob Smith, Chair of the Association’s Board Development Committee. “As we work to elevate the visibility of LGBTQ+ professionals in boardrooms, this grant will allow us to approach other partners interested in helping us build the capacity and infrastructure needed to achieve our objectives.”
The David and Lucile Packard Foundation is known for its commitment to supporting diverse leadership across various sectors, and this grant aligns with its broader mission of advancing more just and inclusive societies.
About the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors
The Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors, founded in 2022, is the premier not-for-profit organization focused on increasing the representation of LGBTQ+ leaders in corporate boardrooms. With over 600 members, the Association provides networking opportunities, mentorship, board readiness programs, and advocacy to ensure that LGBTQ+ professionals have the opportunity to contribute to corporate governance. For more information, visit www.lgbtqdirectors.org.
For media inquiries or further information about the Association’s work and the impact of this grant, don’t hesitate to contact Fabrice Houdart at info@lgbtqdirectors.org.
End of Release
For Immediate Release
October 17, 2024
Contact:
Fabrice Houdart
Executive Director
Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors
info@lgbtqdirectors.org