Show your LGBTQ+ pride as a business or an ally

In this Article:

• Resources for LGBTQ+ businesses
• How to become a certified LGBTQ+ business
• Supporting LGBTQ+ businesses as an ally
• Protecting your LGBTQ+ business
• Building an inclusive workplace culture beyond Pride Month
• Frequently asked questions
• Learn more about supporting diverse businesses

June is Pride month and small businesses are flying their rainbow flags. There are many ways to celebrate Pride, whether yours is an LGBTQ+ business or an ally – a business that demonstrates inclusion every day. 

Resources for LGBTQ+ businesses

If you are a business owner who identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, non-binary or gender non-conforming, there are resources available to you. Two of the largest organizations that provide these resources are the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).

The SBA’s Network for LGBTQ Businesses empowers LGBTQ businesses economically by providing them with access to the programs and services offered by the Small Business Administration. The SBA conducts outreach to be more inclusive to this community of business owners. There is a list of local LGBTQ chambers of commerce on the SBA site as well.  

The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunity for LGBT people. There are 62 local affiliated chambers throughout the US and around the world. NGLCC is the exclusive certifying body of LGBT-owned businesses.

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How to become a certified dLGBTQ+ business

If you are a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or non-binary business owner, your business may be eligible to be a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE). This certification is given by the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. To qualify, a business must:

• Be at least 51% owned, operated, managed and controlled by a person or persons who identify as part of the LGBT community (which includes non-binary/gender non-conforming and transgender individuals). They must also be US citizens or lawful permanent residents. 
• Operate independently from any non-LGBT business enterprise.
• Have been formed as a legal, for-profit entity and headquartered in the United States.

Certified LGBT Business Enterprises have access to resources from the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. They also have access to contracting opportunities from other businesses that are trying to fulfill their commitment to diversity by contracting with LGBT businesses. 

The NGLCC has over 300 corporate partners, which rely on Certified LGBT Business Enterprises to improve diversity in their organizations, support their supplier diversity programs and even improve their score on the HRC Corporate Equality Index. NGLCC corporate partners include IBM, American Airlines, Coca-Cola, General Motors and many more. 

To apply, visit the NGLCC website.

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Supporting LGBTQ+ businesses as an ally

Even if your business is not LGBTQ+-owned, you can still show your support – both during Pride month and all year long. Here are some tips:

Make sure you’re supporting diversity in your hiring and vendor relationships. Take care to provide equitable benefits to employees, including domestic partnership and adoption benefits. And be sure your LGBTQ+ employees know that if they come to you with concerns, they will be heard.

Provide diversity and inclusion training to your employees. While this is particularly important for employees who have customer-facing roles, everyone needs to treat co-workers with sensitivity. Better Allies is an organization that promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace and provides some helpful resources. 

Related: 7 Lessons on diversity and inclusion from a Hiscox HR leader

Spread the word that you’re inclusive. Gayborhood is a directory of local businesses that are LGBTQ+-friendly. Members of Gayborhood can refer businesses they know to be allies, and businesses can sponsor ads and post events on the website. 

Whether yours is a LGBTQ+ business or an ally, show your pride in June and all year round!

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Protecting your LGBTQ+ business

Like all small business owners, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs need proper insurance coverage to protect against unexpected risks and liability claims. Whether you're a certified LGBTBE or an ally business, having the right protection ensures one lawsuit or claim won't derail the business you've built. General liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage claims if clients or customers are injured at your business or if you accidentally damage client property. If you provide professional services or advice (consulting, design, marketing, accounting), professional liability insurance protects against claims of errors, omissions, or negligence that cause clients financial harm.

Many LGBTQ+ businesses also need cyber security insurance if they handle customer data, accept credit card payments, or maintain client information electronically. A data breach can result in notification costs, credit monitoring expenses, legal fees, and regulatory fines. Some corporate diversity programs and supplier certification processes require proof of insurance through a certificate of insurance before awarding contracts. Having proper coverage demonstrates professionalism and preparedness, helping you compete for corporate supplier opportunities. Get a quote to protect your LGBTQ+ business and ensure you're ready for any contracting opportunity.

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Building an inclusive workplace culture beyond Pride month

True inclusion extends far beyond rainbow logos during Pride month. Creating an authentically inclusive workplace requires year-round commitment to policies, practices, and culture that support LGBTQ+ employees and customers. Start by reviewing your employee handbook and benefits to ensure they explicitly include LGBTQ+ protections and provide equitable benefits for same-sex partners and families. Many states lack comprehensive employment discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, making company policies even more critical. Implement inclusive language in job postings, applications, and internal communications (using "they/them" pronouns when gender is unknown, avoiding gendered terms like "ladies and gentlemen").

Train managers on LGBTQ+ workplace issues, including proper pronoun usage, creating safe spaces for coming out, and addressing discrimination or harassment. Consider establishing employee resource groups (ERGs) for LGBTQ+ employees and allies to provide community and feedback on company policies. Support LGBTQ+ organizations and causes throughout the year, not just during Pride month. Partner with LGBTQ+ suppliers and vendors when possible, helping build economic opportunity within the community. Display visible signs of inclusion like Safe Space stickers, inclusive bathroom signage, and pronoun options on name badges. These actions signal to employees, customers, and partners that your business values diversity and inclusion as core principles, not marketing opportunities.

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Frequently asked questions

Does LGBTBE certification help my business win contracts?  

Yes, LGBTBE certification can significantly improve your access to corporate contracting opportunities. Over 300 major corporations partner with NGLCC and actively seek certified LGBT-owned businesses to fulfill supplier diversity commitments. Companies like IBM, General Motors, and American Airlines maintain supplier diversity programs that prioritize working with diverse vendors including LGBTBE-certified businesses. Many corporations track diversity spending and report it publicly, creating real demand for certified suppliers. Certification also improves your score on platforms like the HRC Corporate Equality Index, which corporations use to demonstrate their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. Beyond direct contracting, certification provides networking opportunities, visibility, and credibility that can lead to new business opportunities. However, certification alone isn't enough; you still need competitive pricing, quality services, and proper insurance coverage that many corporate contracts require.

Do I need different insurance because I'm an LGBTQ+ business owner?  

No, LGBTQ+ business owners need the same types of business insurance as any other business owner. Your coverage needs depend on your industry, services provided, and business activities, not your sexual orientation or gender identity. Most businesses need general liability insurance for bodily injury and property damage claims. If you provide professional services or advice, you need professional liability insurance. Businesses handling customer data need cyber security insurance. The certification process and corporate supplier diversity programs often require proof of insurance, making adequate coverage essential for accessing those opportunities. Focus on getting the right coverage for your business type and activities rather than seeking LGBTQ-specific insurance products.

Can allies become NGLCC members even if they're not LGBTQ+-owned?  

While LGBTBE certification is only available to businesses that are at least 51% owned by LGBTQ+ individuals, allies can still support NGLCC's mission and participate in the community. Corporate partners (large companies) join NGLCC to access certified suppliers and demonstrate their commitment to supplier diversity. Individual allies can attend NGLCC events, support LGBTQ+ businesses by choosing certified suppliers, and advocate for inclusive business practices in their industries. Some local LGBT chambers of commerce offer ally memberships that provide networking opportunities and resources for supporting LGBTQ+ business owners. Consider joining your local chamber, attending Pride business events, and actively seeking LGBTQ+-owned vendors for your business needs. Actions speak louder than membership status when demonstrating genuine support for LGBTQ+ economic empowerment.

What should I do if my business faces discrimination after displaying LGBTQ+ support?  

Document everything if you experience discrimination, including dates, individuals involved, specific statements or actions, and any financial impact. Discrimination can take many forms including lost contracts, negative reviews, vandalism, or hostile communications. Contact your local LGBT chamber of commerce for guidance and support, as they often have resources for businesses facing backlash. Consider filing complaints with relevant agencies if discrimination violates laws or contract terms. Review your insurance policies, as certain types of discrimination-related losses may be covered under business insurance depending on the specific circumstances. Consult with an attorney specializing in discrimination law to understand your legal options. Many businesses find that openly supporting LGBTQ+ rights attracts more customers than it loses, as consumers increasingly support inclusive businesses. Stand firm in your values while protecting your business legally and financially.

How can small businesses afford diversity and inclusion training?  

Diversity and inclusion training doesn't have to be expensive. Many free and low-cost resources exist for small businesses wanting to improve workplace inclusion. Organizations like Better Allies offer free online resources, articles, and guides for creating inclusive workplaces. The Human Rights Campaign provides free toolkits and best practices for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. Local LGBT chambers of commerce often host free or low-cost workshops and training sessions. Online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and YouTube offer diversity training courses ranging from free to affordable. Consider starting with self-paced online resources and discussion sessions rather than expensive in-person trainers. The most important investment is time and genuine commitment to change, not money. Small actions like respecting pronouns, using inclusive language, and creating safe spaces for employee concerns cost nothing but demonstrate real commitment to inclusion.

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Learn more about supporting diverse businesses

Business insurance 101: Everything you need to know – Get comprehensive guidance on business insurance basics for small businesses, including coverage types, costs, and how to build a complete protection package.

Why your LLC needs small business insurance – Discover why forming an LLC isn't enough to protect your business assets and learn how the right insurance coverage safeguards both your company and personal finances.

Small business insurance guide – Explore insurance options designed specifically for small businesses, including general liability, professional liability, and cyber security coverage. 

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