OLYMPIA – Washington’s new LGBTQ Certification program is LIVE—and open for business.

The state launched a new LGBTQ Business Enterprise program on July 1, 2025. Now small business owners and entrepreneurs in the LGBTQ+ community can get certified with the state, free of charge. This program is intended to help LGBTQ-owned businesses access valuable government contracts which can grow and sustain their businesses.

LGBTQBE Certification is available through the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises. “We are excited to partner with the Washington State LGBTQ Commission to launch one of the nation's first statewide LGBTQ Business Enterprise programs,” said OMWBE Director Lekha Fernandes. “This certification allows us to build business solutions that truly improve equity in public spending, by recognizing LGBTQ+ owned businesses in government contracting.”

Improving opportunities for LGBTQ-owned businesses

Since 1983, OMWBE has certified minority- and women-owned businesses. LGBTQ Business Enterprise certification expands that focus to include another underrecognized community. Until now, there were few options in Washington state for LGBTQ+ businesses, outside of third-party certification with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. This certification was only recognized by King County.

"After more than a decade of advocacy from the community on this issue, I am very pleased to see OMWBE enthusiastically implementing this program for LGBTQ+ small businesses. We know that the LGBTQ+ community faces economic disparities, and this recognition—along with the ongoing work of many individuals and organizations from community—can help move the needle toward a fairer economy for all Washingtonians," said WA State LGBTQ Commissioner & Secretary Matt Landers.

“Reducing barriers and increasing access within state government is a core tenant of the LGBTQ Commission,” said Lisa Keating, executive director of the WA State LGBTQ Commission, “The LGBTQ+ Business Enterprise program is yet another example of the commitment Washington state has for improving the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ Washingtonians."

How to apply for certification

LGBTQ Business Enterprise is one of several certifications in OMWBE’s State Certification program. To qualify, a small business must be for profit and licensed to do business in Washington state. LGBTQ+ individuals must own at least 51% of the business, manage and control day-to-day operations, and fall under a personal net worth threshold.

Small businesses seeking state contracting and procurement opportunities are encouraged to apply. To learn more, visit omwbe.wa.gov/certification.

About OMWBE

The Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises is the sole state agency that certifies small minority- and women-owned businesses to participate in public contracting and procurement. We promote equity in Washington State spending by dismantling barriers to participation and advancing inclusive economic growth.

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Media Contacts

Tim Kenney, Communications Director
press@omwbe.wa.gov | (360) 704-8849