The LGTBIQ+ business community in Washington state has just taken an important step. From now on, those who own small businesses or ventures will be able to officially certify their company as LGTBIQ Business Enterprise. The program, promoted by the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) and supported by Governor Bob Ferguson, is free and seeks to open access to government contracts key to the growth and sustainability of these businesses.
“It is an especially important moment to show our support as a state for the LGTBIQ+ community,” said Ferguson. “Washington has a diverse and thriving business community. This program helps us recognize and support our LGTBIQ+ entrepreneurs.”
An inclusive directory and more opportunities
Since 1983, the OMWBE has certified minority- and women-owned businesses to participate in public bidding. With the incorporation of the LGTBIQ+ certification, all recognized companies will become part of an official directory, which state agencies, universities, local governments and contractors use to search for diverse suppliers.
In addition, the state encourages its agencies to contract directly with certified businesses, and in 2026 it will begin to publish specific reports on spending with LGTBIQ+ companies. The program also offers free consulting and training to improve business skills.
A pioneering alliance at the national level
The director of OMWBE, Lekha Fernandes, highlighted that this is one of the first state certifications of this type in the country. “This certification allows us to build business solutions that improve equity in public spending, recognizing companies owned by LGTBIQ+ people in government contracting.”
Until now, certification options for LGTBIQ+ businesses in Washington were limited. The best known, managed by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, was only officially recognized in King County.
Matt Landers, commissioner and secretary of the LGTBIQ Commission of Washington, recalled that this advance comes after more than a decade of community pressure: “We know that the LGTBIQ+ community faces economic inequalities, and this recognition can be a real step towards a fairer economy for all.”
Lisa Keating, executive director of the same commission, added: “Reducing barriers and increasing access within state government is essential. This program is another example of Washington’s commitment to improving the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+”.
A critical look: is everything as positive as it seems?
Although the program is a symbolic and practical victory for the LGTBIQ+ community, there are voices that warn of possible risks. For example, the number of contracts awarded is not as high as expected, or certification is used as a political marketing strategy rather than as a structural change. Furthermore, it remains to be seen whether small companies will have the real ability to compete against larger suppliers, even with the official seal. The question that remains in the air: can this program really transform access to opportunities or will it remain good intentions?
