Economic Empowerment

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation publishes content on economic empowerment and related issues. Find and access current and archived items in our database. 

Better Business: The Benefits of LGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Workplace

Corporate Citizenship Center
March 24, 2023
Cover image - Better Business: Benefits of LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion
This report examines the mechanics of how businesses develop and evaluate their LGBTQ+ inclusive practices. Findings show that businesses seek trusted expert knowledge as they develop their LGBTQ+ inclusive practices. Advances in data collection and programmatic monitoring and evaluating also contribute to the success of such activities. And, workplace changes that have evolved as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and George Floyd’s death coalesced to help businesses better support LGBTQ+ employees’ needs. Taken together, these efforts enhance the effectiveness of businesses’ LGBTQ+ workplace initiatives.
Economic Empowerment

Building Stronger Communities Through Black-owned Businesses

Corporate Citizenship Center
March 23, 2023
Phyllis Calderon, Shaykara Webster, Yvonne Eloisebo, Leo Brownfield IV, and Arlene Donovan
The work being done through the Coalition to Back Black Businesses (CBBB) is not only empowering Black entrepreneurs across the U.S., but also the communities they serve. With access to capital being a major issue, CBBB grants help to create opportunities and economic growth that benefits everyone. Now, we’re sharing the stories of the business owners directly impacted by CBBB and how they’re advocating for equal access to opportunity.
Alicia Sondberg
Economic Empowerment
Entrepreneurship

Advancing Financial Resilience and Well-being for Women

Corporate Citizenship Center
March 16, 2023
13th Annual International Women's Day Forum
© Ralph Alswang
We cannot underestimate the importance of helping women and girls develop financial acumen to position them for success, no matter their life stage or unique journey. It will positively impact our democracy, our economy and our society. To strengthen financial resilience and confidence for women, we must improve their access to financial education and resources. This starts with business taking the responsibility to ensure a more equitable future for all and continuing to make progress in our commitments to build more inclusive workplaces where everyone can advance and thrive.
Jennifer Kingston
Corporate Citizenship
Economic Empowerment
Women

Better Business: The Present & Future of B2B Commerce with Black-Owned Businesses

Corporate Citizenship Center
February 27, 2023
Cover image - Better Business: Procurer and Black-owned Businesses report
The relationship between procurers and Black-owned businesses that conduct business-to-business (B2B) commerce is enjoying growing economic influence. To better understand the dynamics of the procurer and B2B Black-owned business rapport, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation collaborated with the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Poole College of Management on research to gauge the experiences and attitudes of procurers and B2B Black-owned businesses.
Economic Empowerment
Economic Growth

Backing Black-Owned Businesses - Today and for the Future

Corporate Citizenship Center
February 14, 2023
The U.S. Chamber Foundation's Coalition to Back Black Business (CBBB) today announced it has awarded $5,000 grants to 324 Black small business owners representing 40 states, District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands, delivering on its mission to advance the long-term success and resilience of America’s Black-owned small businesses.
Shanique Streete
Corporate Citizenship
Economic Empowerment
Entrepreneurship

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Announces Winners of the 23rd Annual Citizens Awards

Corporate Citizenship Center
November 16, 2022

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced the recipients of its 23rd Annual Citizens Awards – eight companies that have shown exceptional leadership in harnessing innovation and creativity to solve our most pressing issues. From developing a STEM program to support the future aerospace workforce, to reducing waste and emissions across the supply chain, to delivering critical relief items to Ukrainian refugees, these companies illustrate how strong businesses are the foundation of strong communities.

Community Improvement
Corporate Citizenship
Disaster Response
Economic Empowerment
Education
Environment
Health and Wellness

Applications Now Open for the Coalition to Back Black Businesses 2022-23 Grant Program

Corporate Citizenship Center
August 22, 2022

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and American Express today announced that the Coalition to Back Black Businesses (CBBB) is now accepting applications for its 2022-23 grant program, which will provide $5,000 grants to 272 Black-owned small businesses to help them meet critical needs and invest in long-term growth.

Corporate Citizenship
Economic Empowerment
Economic Growth
Entrepreneurship

Incorporating Inclusion: Charlotte, North Carolina

The U.S. Chamber Foundation will host its next Incorporating Inclusion event in Charlotte, NC. This half-day forum is an opportunity for businesses, especially small and medium-sized businesses, and partners to learn how to build inclusive cultures inside and outside their organizations.

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