LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE)
LGBTBE (LGBT Business Enterprise) certification from NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce) connects LGBT-owned businesses with America's leading corporations committed to supplier diversity. With growing corporate focus on LGBT inclusion, this certification opens doors to procurement opportunities with companies actively seeking diverse suppliers.
- Issuing body
- NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce)
- Cost
- $400 - $750
- Processing
- 30-60 days
- Recognition
- National
Who qualifies for LGBTBE?
To qualify for LGBTBE certification:
**Ownership Requirements:**
- At least 51% owned by one or more LGBT persons who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- Ownership must be real, substantial, and continuing
**LGBT Status:**
- Owner(s) must self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender
- NGLCC maintains confidentiality of owner identity
**Control Requirements:**
- LGBT owner(s) must have operational control of the business
- Must manage day-to-day operations
- Must make long-term business decisions
**Business Requirements:**
- For-profit business operating in the U.S.
- Operational with demonstrated business activity
- Independent business (not a subsidiary)
How to apply for LGBTBE
**Step 1: Create NGLCC Account**
Register at nglcc.org and create your business profile.
**Step 2: Complete Application**
Fill out the online certification application with business details.
**Step 3: Upload Documents**
Submit all required documentation through the portal.
**Step 4: Pay Certification Fee**
Fees typically range from $400-$750 based on company revenue.
**Step 5: Application Review**
NGLCC staff reviews your application for completeness.
**Step 6: Verification**
May include phone interview or virtual site visit.
**Step 7: Certification Decision**
Decisions typically made within 30-60 days.
What you'll need to apply
**Ownership Documentation:**
- Articles of incorporation/organization
- Operating agreement or bylaws
- Stock certificates or membership certificates
- Buy-sell agreements
**Personal Documentation:**
- Government-issued photo ID
- Resume of LGBT owner(s)
**Business Documentation:**
- Business license(s)
- Business tax returns (1-3 years)
- Financial statements
- Bank statements
- Lease or mortgage documents
- Client contracts or invoices
- Capability statement
What LGBTBE unlocks
**Corporate Access:**
- Access to NGLCC's corporate partners actively seeking LGBT suppliers
- Inclusion in the NGLCC Supplier Diversity database
- Invitation to corporate matchmaking events
**Networking:**
- NGLCC International Business & Leadership Conference
- Regional events and local chamber connections
- Affinity groups and mentorship opportunities
**Business Development:**
- Training programs on capacity building
- Access to NGLCC Business & Leadership Academy
- Resources for growing your business
**Visibility:**
- Certification mark for marketing
- Media and speaking opportunities
- Recognition as a certified diverse supplier
Where applicants get tripped up
**Confidentiality:**
- NGLCC protects owner identity
- You choose how to use your certification
- Corporate partners have non-discrimination policies
**Documentation:**
- Ensure ownership documents are current and accurate
- Have business financials professionally prepared
- Demonstrate genuine operational control
**Making the Most of Certification:**
- Update your NGLCC profile regularly
- Attend the annual conference
- Connect with local LGBT chambers
- Register in corporate supplier portals once certified
Keeping your LGBTBE certification active
LGBTBE certification requires annual renewal:
- Certification valid for one year
- Annual renewal fee required
- Submit updated business documentation
- Maintain eligibility requirements
- Report any ownership or control changes
Organizations that issue LGBTBE
Companies that accept LGBTBE
68 corporate programs accept LGBTBE. First 12 below.
- Amazon f100
- Apple Inc. f100
- AT&T Inc. f100
- Boeing f500
- General Motors f100
- Google (Alphabet Inc.) f100
- Johnson & Johnson f100
- JPMorgan Chase f100
- Lockheed Martin f500
- McKesson f500
- Microsoft Corporation f100
- Target Corporation f100
Questions applicants ask about LGBTBE
Is my LGBT identity kept confidential?
Yes, NGLCC maintains strict confidentiality. Your personal information is protected.
I'm not publicly out. Can I still certify?
Yes, certification is confidential and you control how you use it.
Can I get other certifications too?
Yes, many LGBTBE businesses also hold MBE, WBE, or SDVOSB certifications.
How much does certification cost?
Fees range from $400-$750 based on company size, with annual renewal fees.
Is LGBTBE recognized by the federal government?
It's a private certification recognized by corporations. Federal government doesn't have specific LGBT contracting goals.
Pursuing LGBTBE?
The quiz checks your business against every federal, national, and state certification we track and orders the matches by which corporate or government buyers accept each one. Most owners qualify for two or three. If LGBTBE is one of yours, the application link goes directly to NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce).