In Madison, Wisconsin, The Big Gay Market is bringing together a vibrant community of LGBTQ+ artists, makers, and performers in an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. Founded by Ashley Shaw Adams (she/her) and Ollie Dipietro (he/they), The Big Gay Market is a unique marketplace created specifically for queer and marginalized creators, offering a welcoming space where everyone can feel seen and heard.
The idea for The Big Gay Market grew out of a need to create an event that centers the LGBTQ+ community in a way that few other events do. While Madison is home to many fantastic markets, there were few designed intentionally with queer people in mind. Ashley and Ollie saw an opportunity to bring something special to their community, and their dedication to creating inclusive spaces is evident in every aspect of the market.
Building a Market for Everyone
At the core of The Big Gay Market is the desire to create an inclusive space where LGBTQ+ people can come together, shop, and connect with one another. The market is proudly 100% queer-owned and 50% trans-owned, which means that Ashley and Ollie bring their lived experiences as LGBTQ+ artists into every decision they make. One of their key priorities is to ensure that the space is welcoming to everyone, including transgender and nonbinary individuals. This commitment is reflected in the market’s use of gender-neutral bathrooms and the encouragement of gender-neutral language among attendees.
“We wanted to build a market where people can feel comfortable being their authentic selves,” says Ollie. “By creating spaces that prioritize inclusion, we’re able to make sure everyone feels as safe and supported as possible.”
This inclusive approach has resonated with both vendors and attendees. The Big Gay Market is a space where people of all identities can find support and community while shopping from local artists who share their values. It’s more than just a market—it’s a place where LGBTQ+ individuals can come together to share their work, connect, and celebrate each other.
The Kiva Loan: Fueling Growth and Expansion
As a small startup, The Big Gay Market faced its own set of challenges. But with the help of a Kiva loan, Ashley and Ollie were able to secure a larger venue for their market, which played a pivotal role in helping their business take off.
“The Kiva loan was a game changer for us,” says Ashley. “It gave us the resources we needed to grow, expand, and reach even more people in our community. We’re excited to continue building our market and creating more opportunities for local artists and makers.”
The upcoming market at the Alliant Energy Center, scheduled for June 13th-15th, is their biggest yet. It’s an exciting milestone for The Big Gay Market, and it promises to be a celebration of local art, music, and community. The event will feature a wide range of LGBTQ+ artists, performers, and organizations, and will offer attendees a chance to connect with the vibrant creative community that makes Madison so special. For more information and to RSVP, visit their website.
A Collaborative Effort: Bringing Together Local Artists and Performers
One of the key reasons for The Big Gay Market’s success is the way Ashley and Ollie collaborate with their community. With Ashley’s experience vending at local events and Ollie’s expertise in business and art administration, they bring a well-rounded approach to event planning and execution. Their ability to work together and integrate feedback from vendors and attendees ensures that each market is better than the last.
“We both complement each other’s strengths,” says Ollie. “Ashley’s experience in art and event vending combined with my background in business has made us a strong team. We’re always learning and improving, and it’s been incredible to see the support we’ve received from the community.”
Supporting U.S. Marginalized Business Owners: Kiva’s Role in Financial Inclusion
Kiva is committed to providing financial resources to businesses led by underserved and marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. The U.S. program welcomes applications from all U.S. entrepreneurs, and specifically business owners who face barriers in accessing traditional forms of capital. By offering zero-interest loans with no fees, Kiva helps entrepreneurs like Ashley and Ollie overcome financial hurdles and grow their businesses in meaningful ways.
Supporting LGBTQ+ business owners is not only a matter of creating more inclusive spaces but also of fostering a more diverse and thriving economy. When LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs are given the tools and resources they need to succeed, they reinvest in their communities, create jobs, and build lasting connections. Kiva is proud to be part of this effort, helping businesses like The Big Gay Market grow and make an impact on local economies.
Looking to the Future: Growth, Community, and Inclusion
As The Big Gay Market continues to grow, Ashley and Ollie are excited about the future. Their market has already become a staple in the Madison community, and with their expansion to a larger venue, they’re poised to reach even more people. Their vision remains centered on inclusivity, accessibility, and creating a space where queer individuals and their allies can come together to celebrate art, culture, and community.
“We’re always inspired by the local makers and artists we work with,” says Ashley. “We love seeing our community come together and support each other. The joy and excitement at our markets are what keep us motivated to continue growing and providing spaces where people feel welcome and celebrated.”
