ATLANTA—UPS Inc., the world’s largest shipping carrier, is stepping up its supplier diversity efforts to include gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender-owned businesses.

The Atlanta-based company said March 11 it is partnering with the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

NGLCC-certified businesses now can register to participate in UPS’ supplier diversity process, the company said.

The process provides UPS business opportunities for small businesses and those owned by minorities, women, veterans and now lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals.

The NGLCC represents the interests of an estimated 1.4 million businesses owned by lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender individuals, according to a statement issued by UPS.

UPS, also known as United Parcel Service, is offering members of the organization a discount on UPS shipping services.