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. 

Father Playing with Kids in Bedroom
The loss of eligibility for public safety-net programs and the benefits they provide as income rises above eligibility limits is called a “benefit cliff.” Benefits cliffs can significantly impact lower-wage workers and their families financially and may act as a disincentive for pursuing modest promotions and incremental raises and career development.
Asian Male Small Business Owner
If you’ve heard of an ISA, chances are, it was related to education. ISAs have been popular in the education space for about a decade, helping would-be students pay for programs, degrees, certifications, or bootcamps. However, ISAs have applicability well beyond learning. They’re an incredibly powerful tool that lets people use their future potential as collateral for capital.
chilcare equation
Childcare is important for children, and it is essential for working parents. Parents rely on childcare to help them enter, re-enter, or remain in the workforce. But access to affordable, quality childcare is hard to come by, and now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, families are experiencing additional challenges in finding childcare that meets their needs. It is no secret that parents dedicate significant energy and resources balancing their roles at home, in the community, and in the workplace. Parents must consider various factors in determining the level and type of childcare solutions that best meet their needs. These factors make up what we’re referring to as the ‘Childcare Equation.’
Talent Forward 2019, Goodwill CEO, Steve Preston
© Ian Wagreich / U.S. Chamber of Commerce

In this first Work in Progress podcast, I sit down with Steve Preston, CEO of Goodwill Industries Intl., to discuss the nonprofit’s many training programs designed to help prepare people for work at many stages of their lives. I walked away impressed with all Goodwill does to help build a stronger workforce. I think you will, too.

Talent Forward 2020

The dates for the U.S. Chamber Foundation's premiere workforce conference have been announced. Save the date for Talent Forward 2020 on October 30, 2020.

Creative Solutions to Tech Re-Entry Hiring
© i.c. stars
This past spring, members of the Information Technology Alliance (ITA) visited technology workforce development nonprofit i.c.stars prior to the start of their Chicago conference. As part of a Solve-A-Thon activity, designed and led by i.c.stars graduates, the group ended up discussing an unusual topic in technology: re-entry hiring.

Pages