How do I protect my Big Gay business?

• • Get Certified as an LGBTBE: Apply for Certified LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE) status through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). This gives you exclusive access to corporate supplier diversity programs, mentorship, and contracting opportunities.

• • Utilize State Programs: Take advantage of the free (usually) LGBTQ Business Enterprise Certification offered by your state. This connects your business with state procurement contracts and resources. While every state supports diverse business inclusion, they use different agency names. Depending on the state, these services may operate under the Department of Transportation, Treasury, or Department of Administration.
    
    Here are a few, but definitely check with your state if we have not listed it here:
    California: Handled by the NGLCC and the Supplier Clearinghouse.
    Florida: Managed by the Office of Supplier Diversity.
    Georgia: Managed by the Department of Administrative Services.
    Hawaii: Managed by the Hawaii SBA.
    Illinois: Managed by Commission on Equity & Inclusion.
    Indiana: Managed by the Department of Supplier Diversity.
    Maryland: Handled by the NGLCC
    Massachusetts: Handled by the NGLCC
    New Jersey: Managed by the Treasury Division of Revenue.
    New Mexico: Managed by the Taxation and Revenue Department.
    New York: Managed by the Empire State Development’s Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development.
    Ohio: Managed by the Department of Development.
    Oklahoma: Managed by Oklahoma Commerce and with local certification as well. Check out the link! There is also a special certification to be a preferred Tribal vendor. 
    Oregon: Managed by the Oregon Business Development Department.
    Pennsylvania: Handled by the NGLCC
    Virginia: Managed by the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity.
    Washington: Managed by the Washington State Office of Minority & Women’s Business Enterprises
  • Establish Solid Legal Entities: Shield personal assets by registering as an LLC or Corporation. Draft comprehensive operating agreements, and utilize intellectual property law (like trademarking your business name and logo) to protect your brand identity.

• • Navigate Public Accommodation Laws: While federal civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ individuals have gaps, the state of Washington has strict anti-discrimination laws. Familiarize yourself with the American Civil Liberties Union resources on state-level public accommodation rights to ensure your right to operate safely and inclusively.

• • Leverage Business Insurance: Ensure your business has general liability, commercial property, and potentially specialized cyber liability or event insurance. This is crucial if your business faces targeted vandalism, protests, or online harassment

• • Local Chambers of Commerce: Most major cities and some neighborhoods have their own Chambers of Commerce. Join up for networking, business advice, and supporting your community.

*BTW: This isn’t just for 2SLGBTQIA! Women and minorities can be certified, too!

Certification allows your business to be considered for government contracts. Don’t think your business could be contracted by the government? Take a look at the private businesses the government contracts with, you may just be surprised!

nipipani can help! Our accounting and financial services are designed specifically for small organizations like yours; including advisory and CFO support to help you make the most of every certification and contract opportunity you unlock. Fill out our contact form to get in touch.