INDIANAPOLIS (December 7, 2022)—Business Equity for Indy (BEI) announced today the launch of an inaugural Workforce Pilot. The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation awarded a grant to the Indy Chamber Foundation in support of the BEI effort to support small- and medium-sized companies in their efforts to reduce racial disparities and drive equity within businesses. Implementation of these strategies will help these companies build and retain diverse teams—a proven way to spur innovation and increase competitiveness.
“Filling job openings—particularly with diverse talent—remains one of the most significant challenges facing our members today,” said Taylor Hughes, vice president of policy and strategy, Indy Chamber. “Through the BEI Workforce Pilot, companies will be equipped with strategies and resources to develop equitable talent pipelines, enhance inclusive hiring practices, and support the health and wellbeing of a diverse workforce. Ultimately, this opportunity is built to help companies prioritize their best assets—their people.”
Through this first-of-its-kind pilot, companies will have access to resources that help them take action to address inequity in the workforce. The Workforce Pilot comes alongside employers, demystifying evidence-based equity strategies and providing top-dollar support for company implementation at no charge. The program is designed to meet companies where they are and help them implement best practices that support the success of Black and Brown employees.
“Disparities in education have a tremendous impact on career trajectories, earnings, and quality of life—and while employers may recognize those barriers, many are unsure how to take corrective action,” said Claire Fiddian-Green, president & CEO, Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation. “The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation is proud to partner with the Indy Chamber to support businesses working to create greater opportunity for Black and Brown talent across our region.”
The BEI Workforce Pilot will host 19 companies and will begin in January 2023. Participating companies will complete a five-stage program with guidance from subject matter and technical experts. Participating companies include:
Anatome Yoga, Health & Wellness, LLC
Community Action of Greater Indianapolis
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, Inc.
Purple Ribbon Office Solutions LLC
Kellie Taylor State Farm Agency
About Business Equity for Indy
Business Equity for Indy (BEI) is a joint venture of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership and the Indy Chamber, in collaboration with the Indianapolis Urban League, to grow a more inclusive business climate and build greater equity and economic opportunity for the Indy Region’s Black residents and people of color. Learn more about the initiative at BusinessEquityIndy.com.
