RESOURCES & GUIDES
Everything you need to grow your LGBTQ+ business — from LGBTBE® certification to legal advocacy, financial tools, and community connections.
LGBTBE® CERTIFICATION
The LGBTBE® (LGBT Business Enterprise) certification from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce is the gold standard for LGBTQ+-owned businesses. It opens doors to corporate and government supplier diversity contracts worth billions of dollars annually.
Verified Credibility
Nationally recognized certification that validates your LGBTQ+ ownership to corporate buyers.
Supplier Diversity Access
Unlock procurement opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies.
National Network
Join 50+ affiliate chambers and thousands of certified businesses across the country.
THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Verify Eligibility
Your business must be at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by an LGBTQ+ person or persons who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Gather Documentation
Collect ownership documents, operating agreements, tax returns, government-issued ID, and a personal statement affirming LGBTQ+ identity.
Submit Application
Complete the NGLCC online application at nglcc.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The fee is $350 for new applicants.
Site Visit / Interview
NGLCC may conduct a virtual or in-person site visit to verify your business operations and ownership structure.
Receive Certification
Upon approval, you receive your LGBTBE® certificate, logo usage rights, and access to the NGLCC supplier diversity network.
Renew Annually
Certification must be renewed each year. The Suncoast Pride Chamber can help guide you through the renewal process.
TOOLS, GUIDES & LINKS
NGLCC Official Certification Portal
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce's official portal to begin or renew your LGBTBE® certification application.
Florida SBDC Network
Free business consulting, training, and resources from the Florida Small Business Development Center Network.
LGBTQ+ Employment Rights in Florida
An overview of federal and Florida state protections for LGBTQ+ employees and business owners, including recent legal updates.
LGBTQ+ Business Grants Database
A regularly updated database of grants, loans, and funding opportunities specifically available to LGBTQ+-owned businesses.
LGBTBE® Certification Checklist
A step-by-step checklist of all documents and information you need to gather before submitting your LGBTBE® application.
Supplier Diversity Programs Directory
A curated list of Fortune 500 companies and government agencies actively seeking LGBTBE®-certified suppliers.
LGBTBE® Certification FAQ Guide
Answers to the most common questions about the certification process, costs, timelines, and benefits.
SBA Resources for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs
U.S. Small Business Administration resources specifically curated for LGBTQ+ business owners, including loans and grants.
Business Plan Template
A professionally formatted business plan template tailored for LGBTQ+-owned businesses seeking funding or certification.
Marketing Your LGBTQ+ Business
A practical guide to authentic marketing strategies that resonate with LGBTQ+ consumers and the broader community.
SCORE Mentorship Program
Free mentorship from experienced business executives through SCORE, the nation's largest network of volunteer business mentors.
Lambda Legal Help Desk
Free legal information and referrals for LGBTQ+ people facing discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and more.
ACLU LGBTQ+ Rights
Know your rights resources from the ACLU covering workplace protections, public accommodations, and business rights.
Florida Equality Map
An interactive map tracking LGBTQ+ non-discrimination protections across Florida counties and municipalities.
LGBTQ+ Affirming Healthcare Directory
Find LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare providers across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties.
Mental Health Resources for LGBTQ+ Professionals
Curated list of therapists, support groups, and crisis resources for LGBTQ+ business owners and professionals.
The Trevor Project
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ young people. 24/7 support via phone, text, and chat.
Florida LGBTQ+ Business Loan Programs
State and local loan programs with favorable terms for LGBTQ+-owned small businesses in Florida.
Tax Planning Guide for LGBTQ+ Business Owners
Key tax considerations for LGBTQ+ business owners, including same-sex couple filing strategies and business deductions.
NGLCC National Network
Connect with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and its network of 50+ affiliate chambers across the country.
Equality Florida
Florida's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, advocating for full equality in the Sunshine State.
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates
Resources for creating LGBTQ+-inclusive workplaces, including best practices, training, and policy templates.
CERTIFICATION FAQ
PROUD NGLCC AFFILIATE
As an official affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, the Suncoast Pride Chamber connects our members to a national network of resources, certifications, and business opportunities. We are your local gateway to the NGLCC ecosystem.