A newly created LGBTQ + certification program is now available to Columbus businesses through a partnership with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther said the certification will help increase participation in urban procurement and contracts, as well as expand access to networking and engagement programs.
While Chief Diversity Officer Damita Brown said there are no specific contracts set aside for LGBTQ + certified businesses, the city hopes to create a “sheltered marketing program” where only certified businesses can compete for certain contracts.
“Along with being the right thing to do, this has the potential to drive competition, generate potential savings and improve the quality of the services we provide to our citizens,” Ginther said.
Columbus companies can only be certified as an LGBTQ + business through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, although LGBTQ + companies may also have women-owned and minority-owned designations.
The company must be at least 51% owned by a member (or members) of the LGBTG + community to qualify for this certification.
Brown expects the certification process to be completed within 30 days, but once it is certified at the national level, she expects the business to be included in the program at the city level within seven days.
Chris Cozad, owner of Alternative Auto Care, said the program is close to her heart, and the next step in how the city supports LGBTQ people.
“We are proud as both a women’s owner and a lesbian owned business,” said Cozad.
Companies can register for the program at my.nglcc.org.
What do certifications do?
Brown said that certification can help differentiate companies in how they compete in society. On the same subject : Max Politics podcast: Jumaane Williams’ closing argument in the Democratic primary for the governor.
By becoming an LGBTQ + certified business, owners will have access to marketing through the city’s web portal, contract opportunities and training, among other benefits.
