My first session of Women in Leadership was an eye-opener. I was welcomed into a space where women were sharing their journeys, their struggles, and their triumphs. We laughed, exchanged stories, and learned from one another. Reflecting on it, I can genuinely say it’s been a transformative part of my journey, filled with genuine connections and moments of growth.
Diverse Business Enterprise Certifications
The Grand Rapids Chamber’s Diverse Business Enterprise (DBE) certification program recognizes minority, veteran, women, tribal, disability and LGBTQ+ owned businesses. Certifications are provided to increase transparency and to create opportunities for procurement with supplier diversity programs with the area’s largest companies.
The certification of diverse-owned businesses gives West Michigan organizations a competitive advantage when working with the greater business community without additional barriers such as pending citizenship status or access to capital. The process will be the first step to other certifications outside of our jurisdictions.
Having the support and approval of the Grand Rapids Chamber will give these businesses a competitive edge when bidding for contracts with local companies.
*A minority business enterprise is one owned or controlled by a recognized minority group, such as Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, or Native American.