Grant Thornton Earns Perfect Score in Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2026 Corporate Equality Index

Accounting firm recognized for ninth consecutive year for LGBTQ+ workplace equality

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Grant Thornton, one of America's largest professional services firms, has received a perfect 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2026 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), marking the ninth consecutive year the company has earned top marks in this ranking. The CEI is the nation's foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

Why it matters

This recognition reflects Grant Thornton's strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace culture for its LGBTQ+ employees. The firm's consistent high performance on the CEI over nearly a decade demonstrates its leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and equality in the professional services industry.

The details

The 2026 CEI evaluated 534 U.S.-based companies on four central pillars: non-discrimination policies, equitable benefits, inclusive culture, and outreach and engagement. Grant Thornton's perfect score indicates the firm has excelled in all of these areas, providing crucial protections and support for its LGBTQ+ workforce of over 22 million U.S. workers.

  • Grant Thornton has earned a perfect CEI score for the ninth consecutive year in 2026.

The players

Grant Thornton

One of America's largest professional services firms providing audit, assurance, tax and advisory services.

Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF)

The nation's foremost organization benchmarking corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality through the Corporate Equality Index.

Rashada Whitehead

Grant Thornton's chief communications, culture and inclusion officer.

Kelley Robinson

President of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“We're honored to once again be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, and even more proud of what this achievement says about our culture. Earning a perfect score reflects the way our people show up for one another – with respect, empathy and a commitment to helping every colleague feel seen and valued. It's the everyday actions that make this recognition possible.”

— Rashada Whitehead, Chief communications, culture and inclusion officer, Grant Thornton (businesswire.com)

“For nearly a quarter of a century, the Corporate Equality Index has put a marker down for businesses committed to inclusion and transparency for all workers. Now, more than ever, we celebrate them. No matter the environment, companies that communicate clearly and lead with transparency earn trust, retain talent, and strengthen their business. We are always here to collaborate with employers who want to foster a workplace where team members can bring their best selves to the office.”

— Kelley Robinson, President, Human Rights Campaign Foundation (businesswire.com)

What’s next

Grant Thornton plans to continue its focus on fostering an inclusive workplace culture and advancing LGBTQ+ rights in the professional services industry.

The takeaway

Grant Thornton's consistent high performance on the Corporate Equality Index over nearly a decade demonstrates its leadership in promoting LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion, setting an example for other professional services firms to follow.