Beyond welcoming, authentically inclusive
Certification Process
The certification process consists of eight key steps:
- Assessment
- Educational program
- Collection of evidence
- Handbook
- Third-party audit
- Certification
- Annual Surveillance
- Re-certification after 3 years
1. Assessment
Organizations begin the certification journey by completing a free online assessment designed to measure their social impact on the LGBTQ+ community across governance, workforce, customers and suppliers. Upon completion, a detailed report is provided, outlining results, analysis and feedback on the organization’s current practices.
Organizations achieving a total score of 80 or higher may proceed directly to the RINA audit phase. Those with a lower score may require additional preparatory support.
Companies scoring 80+ are also granted access to a dedicated assessment review call with one of QueerVadis’ senior consultants.
- Organizations begin the certification journey by completing a free online assessment designed to measure their social impact on the LGBTQ+ community across governance, workforce, customers and suppliers.
- Upon completion, a detailed report is provided, outlining results, analysis and feedback on the organization’s current practices.
- Organizations achieving a total score of 80 or higher may proceed directly to the RINA audit phase. Those with a lower score may require additional preparatory support.
- Companies scoring 80+ are also granted access to a dedicated assessment review call with one of QueerVadis’ senior consultants.
2. Educational Program
Organizations are required to complete an educational training program, which may be delivered either by QueerVadis or by an approved third-party provider.
Organizations choosing to train with QueerVadis receive comprehensive education on diversity and inclusion, effective communication to reduce complaints, LGBTQ+ marketing and sales strategies, and best practices in diversity management.
Upon completion of the educational program, the organization achieves QueerVadis Accreditation, marking the first formal step in strengthening its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
3. Collection of Evidence
Organizations are required to document their DE&I commitment by gathering relevant evidence of implemented policies, initiatives and advocacy efforts.
As part of this phase, a dedicated team member should be appointed to oversee and further develop the organization’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategy.
4. Handbook
As part of the certification process, organizations are required to develop their own handbook, documenting internal policies, procedures and practices aligned with the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol. The handbook serves as a structured internal reference, supporting the implementation of inclusive practices and providing the necessary documentation for the third-party audit phase.
5. Third-Party Audit
The certification process includes a third-party audit conducted by RINA, the international certification body.
The audit provides transparent and objective verification through an independent and unbiased evaluation of compliance with the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol.
6. Certification
Upon successful completion of the audit, the organization is awarded QueerVadis Certification, becoming a QueerVadis Approved certified by RINA.
7. Annual Surveillance
To ensure continued compliance, organizations undergo an annual surveillance audit conducted by RINA.
Prior to the audit’s expiration date, organizations receive a reminder to schedule the annual surveillance audit.
8. Re-certification After Three Years
Certification is renewed every three years through a re-certification audit, confirming ongoing compliance with the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol and a sustained commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.