Supplier Diversity and Certification

Get LGBTQBE Certified!

The Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) certifies small businesses owned and controlled by minority, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged persons. OMWBE certifies business in order to increase contracting opportunities for certified businesses with state and local governments.

Learn More and Apply

OMWBE State Certification

Washington State LGBTQBE Certification is Now Available

Washington State has officially launched its LGBTQ Business Enterprise (LGBTQBE) Certification, creating a new pathway for LGBTQ+ business owners to access public contracting opportunities.

Administered by the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises, this certification is free, statewide, and designed to increase equity in government spending.

For many businesses, this represents a major step forward—opening the door to state-funded contracts, procurement opportunities, and supplier diversity participation across Washington.

Business Certification Partners

While GSBA’s work with OMWBE is focused on LGBTQ+ business certification, there are numerous other business enterprise certifications that could also be relevant. Businesses can have as many certifications as they are qualified for. Our staff is happy to answer questions about certification and what would be right for your businesses, and to connect you to any of our partner organizations.

Disability:IN
NMSDC – National Minority Supplier Development Council
Washington State Office of Minority and Women Business Enterprises
Washington Department of Veterans Affairs
WBENC – Women’s Business Enterprise National Council

Department of Enterprise Services: Supplier Diversity in State Contracts

State agencies are required to take specific steps to ensure they give Washington state small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses equitable access to goods and services contracts. The Department of Enterprise Services is working on improving equity in public spending to create more opportunities for Washington businesses, which strengthens our communities. Visit their website for more information here: https://des.wa.gov/about/agency-overview/initiatives/supplier-diversity-state-contracts

King County E-procurement

To participate in King County’s contracting process, you must register as a supplier.

Visit their supplier website for more information

LGBTBE Certification Process

How It Works

To qualify for LGBTQBE certification through OMWBE:

  • Your business must be for-profit and Washington State–registered
  • At least 51% LGBTQ+-owned
  • Ownership must include day-to-day management and control
  • Applicants must meet personal net worth requirements

Applications are now open through the state.

Apply Now