Member Benefits

At the Diversity Chamber of Central Ohio, we are committed to helping LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and business leaders succeed. Our members gain access to a wide range of resources, events, and opportunities designed to enhance their businesses and foster connections across Central Ohio and beyond.

When you join the Diversity Chamber, you become part of a vibrant network of business professionals who share a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Here’s what you can expect as a member:

Networking Opportunities

  • Exclusive Events: Attend member-only networking events, luncheons, and mixers that allow you to connect with other LGBTQ+ business owners, corporate partners, and allies.
  • Collaborative Business Forums: Engage in roundtable discussions and collaborative forums where you can exchange ideas, build partnerships, and gain valuable insights from peers and industry leaders.
  • Access to Corporate Procurement: Gain visibility and opportunities to engage with corporate procurement professionals actively seeking to partner with diverse businesses​.

Business Development & Education

  • Workshops & Training: Take advantage of business development workshops and seminars on topics ranging from marketing and branding to financial planning and leadership development.
  • Professional Mentorship: Access mentorship programs that pair you with seasoned business leaders who can provide guidance and support as you grow your enterprise.
  • LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) Certification: As a member, you can apply for the LGBTBE® certification, which opens doors to corporate contracting opportunities and national supplier diversity programs. The certification fee is waived for Diversity Chamber members, offering a cost-effective way to expand your business reach​.

Advocacy & Representation

  • Local, State, and National Advocacy: Be a part of the Chamber’s advocacy efforts to advance LGBTQ+ business interests. The Chamber actively works to influence policies that support economic inclusion, promote supplier diversity, and combat discrimination in the business world.
  • Representation in the NGLCC: As a member of the Diversity Chamber, you are automatically part of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) network. This gives you access to a national community of LGBTQ+ business owners and advocacy efforts​.

Supplier Diversity Programs

  • Corporate Partnerships: Our supplier diversity program connects LGBTQ+-owned businesses with corporate partners seeking to diversify their supply chains. This includes opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and other large enterprises​.
  • LGBTBE® Certification Benefits: Certified businesses are listed in the NGLCC’s supplier database, accessed by over 160 corporate and government organizations, enhancing your visibility and expanding your business potential.

Marketing & Visibility

  • Member Directory: Be listed in our online Member Directory, where consumers and businesses alike can find and support LGBTQ+-owned enterprises.
  • Promotion of Your Business: Members receive opportunities for promotional features on our website, social media, and newsletters, increasing visibility for your brand within the community and beyond​.
  • Lavender Listings: Have your business included in the Lavender Listings, an online directory specifically highlighting LGBTQ-friendly businesses in Central Ohio–in partnership with Stonewall Columbus​.

Discounts & Perks

  • Event Discounts: Enjoy discounted or complimentary admission to Diversity Chamber events, including workshops, and networking events.
  • Partner Offers: Gain access to discounts and special offers from corporate partners and local businesses that support the LGBTQ+ community​.

Join Us Today!

Becoming a member of the Diversity Chamber of Central Ohio is an investment in your business and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse business community. Whether you are a small business owner, a corporate leader, or an ally, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of LGBTQ+ business in Central Ohio.

For more information on membership tiers visit our Membership Page.