New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce (NJPCC) Celebrates Landmark Legislation Recognizing LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses

Wayne, NJ (October 2, 2024) – The New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce (NJPCC) is proud to announce the successful passage of S1313, a historic law that officially recognizes LGBTQ+ owned businesses in New Jersey through the NJ Treasury Division of Revenue Business Certification Program. This monumental achievement is the result of collaboration across public and private sectors.

Since 2018, NJPCC and National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) have worked tirelessly to advocate for this critical legislation, demonstrating resilience and perseverance. The Executive Order was passed in 2022 and the bill passed in 2024, the first of its kind in the nation.

"We are immensely grateful for our strong partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb, whose dedication has been instrumental in achieving this legislative victory," said Augusto Penaranda, Executive Director of NJPCC. "Their support for the LGBTQ+ community is evident not only in their lobbying efforts but also in their broader commitment to inclusion."

"At Bristol Myers Squibb, we believe that our partnership with NJPCC is pivotal in driving meaningful impact and outcomes for patients, communities, colleagues, and the broader industry," said Frank Sperber, Global Lead for PRIDE Alliance PBRG. "This legislation is a testament to our shared dedication toward creating a more inclusive and equitable business environment."

As NJPCC celebrates this legislative achievement, the organization reaffirms their commitment to advancing inclusive business practices.

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ABOUT THE NEW JERSEY PRIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:

Since 2013, the New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce has been the premier LGBTQ+ and allied business organization committed to facilitating successful business collaborations and increasing the economic staying power of its diverse membership. As an inclusive platform for business visionaries, the Chamber is the first stop for LGBTQ+ and allied entrepreneurs seeking to grow and access opportunities. Its primary mission is to promote the economic growth and development of the local community and help to better serve its members’ businesses by providing resources and opportunities for education, networking, and community engagement.

For more information, please visit https://njpridechamber.org or connect with the NJ Pride Chamber of Commerce on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

The NJ Pride Chamber of Commerce is an official affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). It offers LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE) Certification ® as a benefit of membership with the organization. Certified LGBTBEs are routinely sought after by over 300 NGLCC Corporate Partners who are looking to increase their spend with the LGBTQ+ business community. Certified LGBTBEs are also eligible for scholarship programs, mentorship and leadership training, and other business development tools.

ABOUT BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB:

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.