OLYMPIA, Wash. — LGBTQ+ businesses across Washington state will now be able to certify their businesses through a new LGBTQ Business Enterprise program.

Gov. Bob Ferguson, as well as the Office Minority and Women's Business Enterprises (OMWBE), announced the free certification Friday. They believe it will allow LGBTQ+ small businesses to grow through the access of government contracts and partnerships.

"Washington state has a thriving, diverse business community," said Ferguson in a press release. "This program ensures we are recognizing and supporting our LGBTQ business owners."

All businesses certified by the OMWBE are put into a certification directory. When state agencies need to contract with a small business, they are incentivized to partner with those certifications. OWMBE is exc

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