The Indy Chamber Foundation won a grant to help 19 small and medium-size companies build and retain a diverse workforce, including the organization announced Wednesday.
“Filling job openings — particularly with diverse talent — remains one of the most significant challenges facing our members today,” said in a statement. “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.”
The program, called Workforce Pilot, is a result of the Business Equity for Indy effort, a partnership between the chamber, Central Indiana Corporate Partnership and Indianapolis Urban League. The coalition formed after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis prompted nationwide protests and discourse on racism and discrimination.
Indiana companies, such Cummins, Eli Lilly and Salesforce, pledged to address racial disparities within their own workforce as a result in 2020. The Indy Racial Equity Pledge outlined initiatives ranging from hiring and retaining Black workers, increasing spending at Black-owned businesses and investing in Black-led organizations.
“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, in statement. “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.”