Joe Diaz, Owner of Pawz N Palz Canine Community
LGBTQ+ businesses in the United States contribute an estimated $1.7 trillion to America’s economy, creating thousands of new jobs each year. The Greenhouse celebrates the LGBTQ+ innovators, entrepreneurs & their allies who provide essential services and diversify our community!
GH: Tell us a little about yourself and your business!
JD: Born and raised in Ohio. Moved to Florida in summer of ’99. Lived all over Tampa Bay between St. Pete, Tampa and Countryside. I own a dog walking, daycare and boarding business from home.
GH: What inspired you to start your business?
JD: I started in 2020 during the pandemic. I was laid off from my job of 13 yrs. I took that as an opportunity to do something I really loved, which was being with dogs. My neighbors were working from home couldn’t do their jobs as their dogs were constantly needing attention, so I said let them come over and play with my dogs, and it just grew from there.
GH: What do you love about having a small business in St. Pete?
JD: I love the community and support I’ve gotten so far.
GH: What does Pride month mean to you?
JD: Pride means so much.
- The struggle and hardships the generation before me had to endure to pave the path myself and younger generations can benefit from.
- Being able to have the right to exist and have equal rights as any other group.
- Celebration and support of anyone that is different and make them feel valued.
GH: What are your future goals/plans for your business?
JD: I would love to expand to a larger location with an acre or two of land and really do this right. I am looking for investors if anyone is interested in joining.
