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. 

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

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.

Unemployment and Underemployment Continue to Plague Military Spouses and Affect Financial Stability

For the past decade, military spouses have experienced an unwavering unemployment rate of 22%, making it one of the highest unemployed demographics in the United States. According to new research, their spouses' military service is also negatively affecting their ability to maximize employer-sponsored retirement benefits, build their long-term financial futures and find careers that offer competitive salaries equivalent to their professional experiences and/or education levels. The Hidden Financial Costs of Military Spouse Unemployment survey, conducted by Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) in collaboration with Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and First Command Financial Services Inc., shines a light on the impacts of being a military spouse.

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

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.

Coalition to Back Black Businesses Awards Grants and Mentorship to 600 Black Small Business Owners

The Coalition to Back Black Businesses (CBBB), launched in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, American Express, and the nation’s four leading Black chambers – the National Black Chamber of Commerce, National Business League, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and Walker’s Legacy – announced it has awarded $5,000 grants to 600 Black-owned small businesses in 33 states.

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