ConnXus has announced its corporate partnership with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), accelerating the supplier management company’s mission to open inclusive procurement opportunities to diverse businesses. NGLCC is the nation’s exclusive certifying body for LGBT owned and operated businesses.

LGBT business owners make up a significant part of the American business landscape, contributing an estimated $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy. Since its inception in 2010, ConnXus has become a reliable source for over 1.8 million certified suppliers in their database seeking inclusive business opportunities.

Justin G. Nelson, NGLCC president and co-founder looks to ConnXus as a strategic player in the future of inclusive procurement initiatives. “America’s top corporations are eager to do business with the LGBT community, which is reflected in the ever-growing list of NGLCC corporate partners committed to diversity and innovation,” said Nelson. “We are excited to have ConnXus join us on this journey and ensure greater economic opportunity and inclusion for the LGBT business community nationwide.”

Via its platform and ConnXus Platinum supplier development program, diverse suppliers gain exposure to corporate registration portals and inclusive bid opportunities. Russel Harris, CEO of Russel Harris Event Group, a certified LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE) and ConnXus Platinum supplier stated, “My team was able to meet with key Fortune 500 decision-makers at the 2017 NGLCC International Business & Leadership Conference that valued our dedication towards becoming a certified LGBTBE. We are thrilled to promote our certification through ConnXus to increase our exposure to corporate procurement teams.”

“ConnXus is committed to increasing opportunities for LGBTBEs to be included in global sourcing and procurement efforts,” stated ConnXus chief operations officer and co-owner Daryl Hammett. “This includes enabling NGLCC’s certified LGBT business owners to grow and foster business relationships with corporate buyers in the ConnXus network. Inclusive procurement is truly a no-brainer – our clients see significant improvements in supply chain sustainability and an up-tick in collaborative third-party product and service innovation.”

As a result of this partnership, Hammett, will serve on the NGLCC Corporate Advisory Council. ConnXus senior manager of channel sales and international business development, Jennifer O’Neal-Douga, will serve on the NGLCC Procurement Council.

NGLCC’s council forum members exchange ideas regarding supplier diversity best practices, standards for how to do business with certified LGBT suppliers, and emerging trends in diversity and inclusion. NGLCC corporate partners demonstrate their commitment to inclusion by completing the circle of diversity, which includes pro-LGBT workplace policies, authentic LGBT marketing, and purchasing from certified LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs).

ConnXus is exhibiting as a corporate member at the 2018 NGLCC International Business and Leadership Conference Aug. 14-17 in Philadelphia, PA.