The Northland Business Association was founded in 1981 to promote networking among gays and lesbians who were in business or professions; to make the community aware of lesbian- and gay-owned businesses and businesses that were supportive of lesbians and gays; and to advance issues of concern to businesses and professional people in the gay community. Members included merchants, entrepreneurs, entertainers, attorneys, physicians, public officials, teachers, theologians, and others.
After growing for several years, the group began to see a drop-off in participation in the late 1980s, and by 1988 it could no longer support itself financially. As part of a nationwide trend toward the dissolution of gay business organizations, the board voted to dissolve the organization in July 1988.
From the guide to the Association records., 1982-1988., (Minnesota Historical Society)
