Washington state is supporting LGBTQ+-owned small businesses with a new program that helps proprietors establish contracts with state agencies.
The new program, dubbed the LGBTQ Business Enterprise, comes from the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises and Governor Bob Ferguson and offers free certifications to businesses. “It’s a particularly important moment to show our support as a state for the LGBTQ community,” Ferguson said.
“Washington state has a thriving, diverse business community,” said Ferguson in a news release. “This program ensures we are recognizing and supporting our LGBTQ business owners.”
Tim Kenney, communications director at the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE), told the Seattle Times, the main advantage of the certification is visibility. Once certified, businesses will be added to a public directory that state agencies, education organizations, and local governments can reference.
In order to qualify, a small business must be for profit and licensed to do business in Washington state. For the LGBTQ Business Enterprise, queer individuals must own at least 51% of the business, manage day-to-day operations, and fall under a personal net worth threshold.
Prior to the introduction of this program, Washington state queer business owners could only be certified by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, a third-party which is only recognized in King County.
“We know that the LGBTQ+ community faces economic disparities, and this recognition – along with the ongoing work of many individuals and organizations from the community – can help move the needle toward a fairer economy for all Washingtonians” said Matt Landers, Washington’s LGBTQ Commissioner and Secretary.
