Inclusive Economic Growth

As the American population becomes increasingly diverse over the next fifty years, creating an environment for economic opportunity for all will be essential for the future of our communities.

Demographic shifts and labor force changes are causing chambers to think differently about the future of the businesses they serve and the workforce those companies will need. Declining birth rates, workers reaching retirement age, changes in immigration practices, new segments of the population pursuing entrepreneurial business ventures, cost of living and other factors all impact a community's potential for economic prosperity.

Our communities must harness broader perspectives, talents and innovations to drive creativity and efficiency in their economies. Inclusive growth ensures that all people have access to opportunities and resources, helping to bridge gaps in income and employment, ensure economic mobility and reduce systemic inequalities.

Chambers are at the center of this conversation as they look to convene community discussions and develop strategies for their communities' future. A diverse population is already prevalent in some communities, while others will experience a transformational shift over the next few decades.

  • How can chamber leaders develop strategies that anticipate shifting demographics and greater diversity to create broad-based prosperity, from business hiring practices and corporate cultures to inclusive community amenities, education, housing and transportation?

By the Numbers

ACCE Insights

 

Chamber Examples

  • The Greater Cleveland Partnership focuses on scaling minority businesses, increasing leadership and workforce diversity and promoting digital equity within the region. The partnership offers an annual Equity & Inclusion Assessment for companies to compare their efforts to others within their sector and across the region.
  • The Minority Business Initiative (MBI) from the Buffalo Niagara Partnership provides minority-owned businesses access to the partnership’s resources and networks to grow. The initiative seeks to improve owners’ business acumen, foster a more inclusive business environment and create a pathway to board membership.
  • The Toledo Regional Chamber's Minority Business Assistance Center provides counseling services and technical assistance to minority-owned businesses. Everything from business coaching, access to capital, support completing various certification applications and more.

Smaller Chamber Examples

  • The Berkely Chamber of Commerce in South Carolina launched an ambitious effort to open five community resource hubs to address disparities and barriers to economic mobility in its rural communities.
  • The Greater West Plains Area Chamber works with employers, higher education partners and community stakeholders to raise awareness of programs to help lower-income, rural learners get the training they need to access higher-paying jobs.

   

< Back to Horizon Home | On to Digital Transformation and Technological Innovation >