National Certification as an LGBTQ+ Owned or Allied Business Enterprise
is a benefit of your IBA Membership!
The IBA is an official affiliate of the National LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).
Certification Application Fee Waived for all active IBA Members: As a member of the IBA, the NGLCC LGBTBE and Allied SME certification application fee ($899) is waived. You can provide your membership receipt and/or member certificate with your application. Reach out to Maggie (maggie@thinkiba.com) for a copy of both.
What is LGBTBE® Certification?
The National LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce is the exclusive certifying body for LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBE®)—verifying that businesses are majority LGBTQ+ owned.
This nationally recognized certification helps LGBTQ+ owned businesses stand out, connect with corporate partners, and compete for new opportunities.
Why Does Certification Matter?
LGBTBE® Certification is more than recognition: it’s a gateway to relationships, visibility, and business growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
- Get Discovered: Be listed in NGLCC’s supplier database used by procurement teams nationwide
- Access Corporate Opportunities: Connect with companies actively increasing spend with LGBTQ+ owned businesses
- Build Strategic Relationships: Engage directly with corporate partners and supplier diversity leaders
- Grow Your Business: Gain access to mentorship, scholarships, and leadership development programs
- Build Credibility: Third-party certification demonstrates that your business meets nationally recognized standards for ownership and operation, helping buyers purchase with confidence.
- Expand Your Market: Become visible to hundreds of corporations and public sector organizations actively seeking to work with certified businesses.
- Join a Thriving Community: Become part of a nationwide network of entrepreneurs and allies who collaborate, share opportunities, and support one another’s success.
Additional Benefits
- Invitations to national matchmaking and networking events
- Opportunities for sponsorships and increased brand visibility
- Access to vendor and showcase opportunities at corporate events
Does your business meet the following criteria?
- Majority (at least 51%) owned, operated, managed, and controlled by an LGBTQ+ person or persons who are either U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- Exercises independence from any non-LGBTQ+ business enterprise
- Has its principal place of business (headquarters) in the United States
- Has been formed as a legal entity in the United States
If you have any questions, please contact the NGLCC Certification & Business Readiness Team at supplierinclusion@nglcc.org.
What is Allied SME Certification?
This is a NEW and nationally recognize certification. Allied SME (Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise) Certification is designed for businesses that are not majority (less than 51%) LGBTQ+ owned but are committed to engaging with and supporting the LGBTQ+ and allied business community.
Why It Matters
- Be Seen: Get recognized by corporations and partners actively seeking to expand their supplier networks
- Compete & Win: Access opportunities where businesses are evaluated on quality, value, and performance
- Build Connections: Strengthen relationships across a growing network of LGBTQ+ owned businesses and allies
- Grow Your Capacity: Tap into resources, training, and connections that help your business scale
Who is this Certification ideal for?
- Allies of LGBTQ+ communities
- Businesses partially owned by LGBTQ+ individuals
- Any business wanting to stay ahead of current trends in supplier diversity and impact
The Bottom Line
This certification isn’t just a statement: it’s a strategy. It helps your business show up, stand out, and compete in today’s evolving marketplace.
We believe this new initiative represents an exciting opportunity for businesses seeking to strengthen their engagement with the LGBTQ+ and allied business community while positioning themselves for future growth opportunities.
If you have any questions, please contact the NGLCC Certification & Business Readiness Team at supplierinclusion@nglcc.org.