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This Pride Month, M&T Bank is proud to celebrate the LGBTQ-owned businesses that help our communities blossom. To honor this special month, we interviewed two Spotlight Shop business owners, Nani Ferreira-Matthews of Thread Coffee and Tom Akers of Renew Bath and Body, about what June has in store. Here’s what they have to say!
Q: How is your business celebrating Pride Month? Are you offering any special products or promotions to celebrate?
Renew Bath and Body: We’re proud to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community – not just during Pride Month, but all year long. For Pride Month, we have a PRIDE Bar Soap and are donating a portion of proceeds to organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. We believe that creating a cleaner planet also means creating a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone.
Thread Coffee: We have a great deal on our website for 20% with the code "spreadtheword" from June 1 to June 30.
Q: How do you get your employees and customers involved in Pride Month? Will you be participating in any Pride Month events?
Renew Bath and Body: In addition to manufacturing our PRIDE Bar Soap and donating proceeds to LGBTQ+ organizations, we will be attending our local Pride parade and attending the Pride event held afterwards.
Thread Coffee: We’ll be donating our coffee to be raffled off in local Pride fundraisers. Additionally, Thread Coffee is on sale at Whole Foods and Giant Foods during June in recognition of Pride Month.
Q: What advice would you give to other members of the community who might want to own their own business someday?
Renew Bath and Body: To anyone in the LGBTQ+ community dreaming of owning their own business – go for it. Your perspective is your power. Don’t wait for permission or the "perfect" time. Start where you are, with what you have and build something that reflects who you are and what you believe in. Surround yourself with people who see your vision and respect your identity. Find mentors, ask questions, make mistakes and keep going. Your voice, your story and your authenticity are not only valid – they're needed in business.
Thread Coffee: Own your truth. Small business is all about storytelling and connecting with your customers. There's a network out there waiting for you!
Know a business that would be a great fit for the M&T Spotlight Shop? Encourage them to apply today!
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