Recent executive orders from the Trump Administration have targeted DEI initiatives and created uncertainty for federal contractors and the private sector. Supplier diversity programs that previously enabled minority-, women-, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses to compete are being rolled back or reframed. LGBTBE certification continues to provide visibility, access, and connections through merit-based, transparent pathways established by the NGLCC and partners. Certification does not guarantee contracts but remains a powerful procurement tool. The NGLCC conference demonstrated active corporate investment, robust networking, educational sessions, and over 400 corporate partners that continue to underwrite supplier diversity efforts.
Over the past several months, many of you have asked me about the future of supplier diversity programs. The question is timely-and urgent. Recent executive orders from the Trump Administration have directly targeted Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, creating uncertainty for both federal contractors and the private sector. Programs that once opened doors for minority-, women-, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses to fairly compete are being rolled back or reframed under new restrictions.
The short answer is yes. While federal actions have dismantled some long-standing frameworks, the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and its partners continue to build merit-based, transparent pathways for certified LGBTQ+-owned businesses to access contracting opportunities. Certification is not a guarantee of contracts (and it never has been), but it remains one of the most powerful tools for visibility, access, and connection in today's procurement networks.
The energy was undeniable. Educational sessions tackled the most pressing issues of our time, affiliate chamber leaders shared best practices, and intentional networking events created direct lines between small business owners, chambers, and corporate procurement teams. Importantly, the NGLCC still has over 400 corporate partners, many of whom were present. These are not symbolic relationships; these corporations continue to invest millions into supplier diversity, including underwriting much of the conference itself.
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