City of Columbus Launches Certification Program for LGBTQ+ Businesses
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today
announced a partnership with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) to certify
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) to increase
their participation in city procurement and contracting opportunities, and expand
access to training, networking, outreach and engagement programs.
“The LGBTQ+ community is
integral to every facet of our city and deserves every opportunity to thrive,”
said Mayor Ginther. “By expanding equity in our programs and practices, we do
the right thing by becoming a more inclusive city while driving competition,
generating potential savings and improving the quality of services for our
residents.”
Businesses interested in
seeking LGBTE certification will apply via the NGLCC
website. The NGLCC utilizes a
thorough, fully accredited certification process with the following eligibility
requirements:
- “LGBTBE” shall mean a registered business that is an
independent and continuing for-profit operation performing a commercially
useful function.
- At least 51% is independently owned, operated and
controlled by one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons who
are either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Owner must have all filings, licenses, permits and
authorities required by law to perform the scope of work.
- Be located in the United States.
The partnership with the NGLCC
will be administered by the city’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which
also provides similar certification opportunities for Small Local Business
Enterprises (SLBEs), Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), Emerging Business
Enterprises (EBEs) and Veteran Business Enterprises (VBEs). Certification
across multiple categories is permitted, as applicable, and further expands
access to city contracts and DE&I programming.
“Expanding the city’s
certification categories to include LGBTQ+ businesses supports our overall goal
of being an open and inclusive city,” said City of Columbus Chief Diversity
Officer Damita Brown. “It expands opportunities for small businesses and helps
all of us grow and thrive in ways that promote equity, access and prosperity.”
For more information on the Office
of Diversity and Inclusion’s programs and services, visit www.columbus.gov/odi.