Supplier Diversity includes all minority groups and grants underrepresented LGBT suppliers the opportunity to make a lasting difference and to deliver upon their community’s needs. Yet, the efficiency of their minority-owned businesses can truly be maximized with a certification set in stone. Certifications validate a business’s capacity, competency, and positions the business to generate more revenue. You may be wondering, ‘Well, where can I get one?’ The gleaming answer to that is The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)— where “you work hard for your business, and NGLCC’s exclusive LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE) certification works hard for you, giving you a competitive advantage to succeed.”
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The NGLCC created its business certification program as part of its LGBT Supplier Diversity Initiative. According to the NGLCC’s certification guidelines, any business that meets the following criteria is eligible to become a certified LGBTBE:
● The business is at least 51% owned, operated, managed, and controlled by a person or persons who identify as part of the LGBT community (including transgender and non-binary/gender non-conforming individuals) and are either U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
● The business operates independently from any non-LGBT Business Enterprise.
● The business is headquartered and has been formed as a legal, for-profit entity in the United States.
Indeed, that’s all it takes to give your business the leg up to stand out as a distinguished diverse supplier. Achieving diversity and inclusion is of the utmost importance to the enterprise, which is why Certified LGBTBE companies have access to hundreds of corporate representatives and supplier diversity professional contacts. Through these contacts, companies can begin building strategic relationships and make preparations to meet face-to-face with diversity, equity, and inclusion leaders looking to increase their economic impact with diverse communities.
These relationships are often explored at NGLCC matchmaking and networking events that are held across the country throughout the year. The NGLCC also offers certified businesses access to exclusive programs that are designed to support and facilitate revenue growth. These programs include:
● Monthly webinars with expert advice, information, and education from other Certified LGBTBEs.
● Mentorship from other successful LGBTQ+ business owners.
● Access to a scholarship opportunity for Tuck’s School of Business Executive Education Program at Dartmouth.
● Special business discounts from LGBT-owned and allied corporate partners.
● Invitations to important national supplier events for networking opportunities.
Take advantage of what makes your LGBT business stand out, whether it’s through the web or face to face. Increase your businesses’ chance of being seen just by supplying what makes the world whole, with your diverse supply. Become a member of your local affiliate chamber to not only leverage local membership benefits, but also to take advantage of complimentary national certification.
Visit My.NGLCC.org to start your LGBT business profile and journey of making transformative change with your LGBTBE certification today!
What’s Next?
Register with our Supplier Diversity Management Software that easily highlights your company’s capabilities to drive better participation, more streamlined engagements, and grow your business! #thesmartestway
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