Get certified.
Through our partnership with the NGLCC — the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce — 3RBA members can earn LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) certification, opening doors to corporate and government contracting through the LGBT Supplier Diversity Initiative.
3RBA members: the $500 certification fee is waived
Why get certified?
The NGLCC is the exclusive third-party body that verifies businesses are majority-owned by LGBT individuals. Certified LGBTBEs join a national network of corporate partners actively looking to do business with LGBT-owned companies.
Be sought after
NGLCC Corporate Partners are actively looking to increase their spend with LGBT-owned businesses — certification puts you on their radar.
Build strategic relationships
Connect with corporate representatives, supplier diversity professionals, and fellow business owners across the network.
Win contracting opportunities
Team with other LGBTBEs for exclusive contracting opportunities, both nationally and locally.
Grow as a leader
Become eligible for scholarships, mentorship and leadership training, and 3RBA and NGLCC matchmaking events all year.
Who can get certified?
Your business can get certified if it meets the following criteria:
Majority (at least 51%) owned, operated, managed, and controlled by an LGBT person or persons who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Exercises independence from any non-LGBT business enterprise.
Has its principal place of business (headquarters) in the United States.
Has been formed as a legal entity in the United States.
How to get certified.
Here’s the path from application to celebration:
Review the required documentation needed to begin the certification process.
Ensure your 3RBA membership is in good standing — members receive the full certification fee waived (a $500 value at no cost to you).
Already certified by WBENC or Disability:IN? Contact the NGLCC directly — you may be eligible for expedited certification.
Complete the online application through the NGLCC.
Send your supporting documentation to the NGLCC.
Undergo a site visit by a certified professional.
Application review by the NGLCC Certification Committee.
Receive your welcome packet — and celebrate!
Certification is a journey, not a destination.
Certification is the critical first step in strategic marketing, relationship building, and engagement with corporations. Once certified, make the most of it:
Register with corporate partners — internal supplier management tools are the first place purchasing managers look.
Research corporate partners — make sure they actually purchase your product or service.
Identify how you fit — bring value with a quality product at a competitive price.
Attend matchmaking events — nothing beats a face-to-face meeting.
Keep your supplier profile up to date so opportunities can find you.
Leverage your certification benefits across 3RBA and the NGLCC network.
Ready to get certified?
Reach out and we’ll guide you through the process — and remember, 3RBA members get the certification fee waived.