5 Powerful Ways to Support LGBTQ+ Communities with Your Spending  

Happy Pride Month! June brings a celebration of identity, love, and progress, and a chance to honor the hard-fought battles for LGBTQ+ rights. But being an ally doesn’t end when June does. Allyship is about showing up consistently—not just with words, but with actions. And one of the most powerful ways to show that support is by paying attention to where and how we spend our money. Your dollars have a voice. 

Every dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. If you choose to support LGBTQ+-owned businesses, donate to LGBTQ+ nonprofits, or invest in companies that prioritize equality, you’re not just making a transaction—you’re helping shift the economy toward greater inclusion and justice. 

Supporting LGBTQ+ communities doesn’t require grand gestures or a big budget. It’s about intentionality. It’s about noticing the choices you make every day—big and small—and recognizing the power they hold. So, if you choose to support greater inclusion this Pride Month (and every month after), here are some ways to let your spending speak for what you believe in.

1. Donate to LGBTQ+ Nonprofit Organizations

You may consider donating to LGBTQ+ nonprofits that work year-round to advance equality and protect the community from discrimination. These organizations play a critical role in advocating for inclusive policies, providing mental health and legal support, offering resources for LGBTQ+ youth, and fighting back against harmful legislation. 

Even if your budget is tight right now, that’s okay—bookmark trusted platforms like Charity Navigator and revisit when you’re able. Whether it’s a one-time donation or a small recurring contribution, every dollar makes a difference. In fact, fewer than 1% of Charity Navigator visitors choose to give, so your donation—no matter the size—helps sustain these organizations and the vital work they do. 

2. Support LGBTQ+- Owned Businesses

If donating isn’t in the cards right now, no worries—another great way to support the LGBTQ+ community is by spending your everyday dollars at LGBTQ-owned businesses. Whether it’s your morning coffee, weekend takeout, or your next gift purchase, choosing queer-owned shops, restaurants, and service providers helps promote real economic empowerment within the community. 

Wondering where to find them? Yelp now lets you search for “LGBTQ-owned” businesses in your area, and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) offers a helpful map of certified LGBTQ-owned companies across the U.S. You can also check in with your local LGBTQ+ chamber or business network for even more options. 

3. Be Intentional with Pride Merchandise

Planning to buy Pride merchandise in 2025? From clothing and accessories to beauty products and home décor, many major brands now offer special Pride collections. Some of these products directly benefit LGBTQ+ organizations—The Trevor Project is one well-known example with corporate partners that give back. 

But not all Pride merch is created equal. Some companies use rainbow branding in June without actually supporting the community in a meaningful way—a practice often referred to as “rainbow-washing.” Before you click “buy,” take a moment to read the company’s mission page or look for transparency about where proceeds are going. 

4. Contribute to LGBTQ+ Crowdfunding Efforts

Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe and GiveOut offer a powerful way to support LGBTQ+ individuals and grassroots efforts directly.

Even a small donation can go a long way—especially when combined with others. Most platforms let you filter by cause or keyword, so you can find LGBTQ+ campaigns that align with what you care about most. Whether it’s supporting a trans youth fundraiser or contributing to a community safe space, your dollars can make a difference where it’s needed most. 

5. Invest in Inclusive Portfolios

If you’re in a position to invest, you may consider putting your money into LGBTQ-inclusive mutual funds or socially responsible stock indexes. These investment options are built to support companies that demonstrate strong commitments to workplace equity, inclusive policies, and overall support for the LGBTQ+ community. 

Not sure where to start? The Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index (updated annually) ranks hundreds of major companies based on their LGBTQ+ policies, benefits, and culture. You can use it as a guide to align your investments with your values—so your portfolio reflects more than just financial goals, but social progress, too. 

Support That Fits Your Budget

Not everyone has the extra cash to make big donations or switch up their investments overnight—and that’s okay. Supporting the LGBTQ+ community with your spending doesn’t have to mean spending more. Here are a few other accessible ways to show your support: 

• Swap, don’t stack: If you’re already planning to make a purchase, consider choosing an LGBTQ+-owned brand instead of your usual go-to. 
• Bookmark donation links: Maybe now’s not the time to give, but your situation may change down the line. Keeping a list of causes you care about can help you plan ahead. 
• Get social: You can follow LGBTQ+ owned businesses, like their posts, and share with your friends. Visibility helps. 
• Use your voice: Ask your favorite brands what they’re doing to support LGBTQ+ employees year-round—not just during June. The more people speak up, the more businesses take notice.