Honoring Excellence in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion 

The Out & Equal Outie Awards recognize the organizations, individuals, and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that lead the way in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion and belonging in the workplace. These prestigious awards celebrate those who drive systemic change and foster environments where LGBTQ+ employees can thrive. 

As the landscape of workplace inclusion evolves, The Outie Awards serve as both a benchmark and an inspiration, amplifying efforts that create lasting, meaningful impact. From corporate advocates to groundbreaking ERG initiatives, each award highlights a different aspect of leadership in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. 

Nomination Requirements 

Please note: To submit an Outie Award nomination, you must be an Out & Equal Partner.

Interested in becoming a Partner? Email partnership@outandequal.org 

To submit a nomination, please ensure that you: 

  • Include a PDF statement of support from your ERG’s Executive Sponsor or a member of your organization’s Executive Leadership Team.
  • Confirm that your nominee will be available to accept the award in person at the Workplace Summit (October 14-16, 2025, in Seattle, WA) should they win the award.
  • Complete the nomination form in its entirety and submit no later than July 1, 2025.

Finalist and Winner Notifications 

The Review Committee is comprised of key internal and external review partners to ensure an unbiased review process. 

Finalists and winners will be notified by the Out & Equal team by August 1st, 2025. 

If a nomination does not advance to the finalist stage, the Out & Equal team will provide notification by August 1st, 2025. 

Questions? 

Email Outies@outandequal.org 

The Ally Changemaker Outie Award recognizes an ally who has made a significant contribution to advancing LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion and belonging. This person is an action-oriented, intentional changemaker. They are a role model for others, uplifting the voices of historically overlooked and/or marginalized groups, have shown a unique commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace rights, and have used their talents to further that cause. An Ally Changemaker is an ally to the LGBTQ+ community but does not self-identify as LGBTQ+ themselves. 

The LGBTQ+ Corporate Advocate Outie Award honors an LGBTQ+ individual who is a driving force behind transformative change within their organization, championing inclusion and belonging. This leader pushes for the adoption of innovative and best-in-class practices that create tangible benefits for LGBTQ+ employees while elevating their organization as a model of workplace inclusion. Beyond their corporate impact, LGBTQ+ Corporate Advocates are bold changemakers, using their voice, influence, and actions to advance LGBTQ+ rights in their communities, across industries, and on a global scale.

The most prestigious of the Outie Awards, The Workplace Excellence & Belonging Outie Award, honors an employer that demonstrates an historic and ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. This employer sets the standard, serves as a role model, and actively supports other organizations' inclusion and belonging efforts through knowledge sharing and mentorship.

The LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group (ERG) of the Year Outie Award honors an established ERG with a sustained record of success in advancing LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion and belonging. This award recognizes an ERG that has been active for more than two years and continues to drive meaningful impact through innovative best practices, intersectional and collaborative programming with other ERGs, and strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ employees. A top contender will be a group that not only fosters an inclusive workplace but also influences broader organizational policies and culture.

The New LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group (ERG) Chapter of the Year Outie Award honors a chapter established within the last two years that has made a significant and bold impact in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion and belonging within their organization. While the broader ERG may have been in existence longer, the nominated chapter must demonstrate measurable progress in creating a supportive, intersectional, and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ employees since its inception. This chapter should be a catalyst for change, driving initiatives that foster allyship, challenge inequities, and promote the visibility and empowerment of LGBTQ+ individuals within their workplace.