Detroit Regional Chamber > Economic Equity & Inclusion > USBC and NGLCC Partner to Support Dual Certification for LGBTQ+ and Black-owned Businesses

USBC and NGLCC Partner to Support Dual Certification for LGBTQ+ and Black-owned Businesses

November 12, 2024

U.S. Black Chamber

[Washington, DC], Nov. 12, 2024 – The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) are proud to announce a strategic partnership designed to enhance economic opportunities for Black and LGBTQ+ business owners. This collaboration aims to empower businesses with dual certifications, allowing them to leverage both the NGLCC Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® (Certified LGBTBE®) and USBC ByBlack Certification® to access greater resources and contracts within corporate supply chains and government programs.

NGLCC is the business voice of the LGBTQ+ community and the largest organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for the LGBTQ+ business community. NGLCC is the exclusive third-party certifying body for LGBTQ-owned businesses in the US with nearly 450 corporate partners accepting this certification, partnering with NGLCC to create fully LGBTQ+ inclusive supply chains. Similarly, USBC leads economic empowerment efforts for Black-owned businesses through advocacy, resources, and initiatives, including the ByBlack Platform®, the nation’s first certification dedicated exclusively to Black-owned enterprises.

Both organizations are proud members of the National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC), a coalition of leading business organizations representing diverse communities. Spearheaded by NGLCC in 2011, the NBIC advocates for equity in inclusion initiatives across corporate America and champions policies that advance the growth of diverse-owned businesses in both the public and private sectors.

Through this partnership, businesses certified by NGLCC and USBC will benefit from increased visibility, credibility, and access to new opportunities with Fortune 500 corporations, government agencies, and large non-profit organizations. These opportunities are part of comprehensive Supplier Diversity and Small Business programs that seek high-quality, certified suppliers from diverse backgrounds.

“Corporate America is increasingly recognizing the value of Black-owned businesses through programs like ByBlack and other MBE certifications, especially in today’s evolving DEI landscape,” said Alicea Gay, Vice President of External Affairs for ByBlack. “This partnership with NGLCC is a significant step in ensuring that Black and LGBTQ+ business owners have the tools and certifications necessary to thrive and make lasting economic impacts.”

“Our partnership with USBC strengthens the foundation for a truly inclusive business community,” said Olivia Jusme, Vice President of Supplier Inclusion & Education at NGLCC “Dual certification will help LGBTQ+ minority-owned businesses increase their marketability and open doors to new growth opportunities.”

Business owners are encouraged to seek dual certification to enhance their marketability, expand their business networks, and increase their eligibility for lucrative contracts. For more information on dual certification, visit https://www.byblack.us/certification/partners.