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. 

7th Annual Military Spouse Employment Summit

The 7th Annual Military Spouse Employment Summit will focus on the progressive impact of work done by public, private, and nonprofit sector partners in communities around the country to delineate the causes and solutions to military spouse employment inequities.
Cover image - Better Business: Benefits of LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion
This report examines the mechanics of how businesses develop and evaluate their LGBTQ+ inclusive practices. Findings show that businesses seek trusted expert knowledge as they develop their LGBTQ+ inclusive practices. Advances in data collection and programmatic monitoring and evaluating also contribute to the success of such activities. And, workplace changes that have evolved as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and George Floyd’s death coalesced to help businesses better support LGBTQ+ employees’ needs. Taken together, these efforts enhance the effectiveness of businesses’ LGBTQ+ workplace initiatives.
Phyllis Calderon, Shaykara Webster, Yvonne Eloisebo, Leo Brownfield IV, and Arlene Donovan
The work being done through the Coalition to Back Black Businesses (CBBB) is not only empowering Black entrepreneurs across the U.S., but also the communities they serve. With access to capital being a major issue, CBBB grants help to create opportunities and economic growth that benefits everyone. Now, we’re sharing the stories of the business owners directly impacted by CBBB and how they’re advocating for equal access to opportunity.
13th Annual International Women's Day Forum
© Ralph Alswang
We cannot underestimate the importance of helping women and girls develop financial acumen to position them for success, no matter their life stage or unique journey. It will positively impact our democracy, our economy and our society. To strengthen financial resilience and confidence for women, we must improve their access to financial education and resources. This starts with business taking the responsibility to ensure a more equitable future for all and continuing to make progress in our commitments to build more inclusive workplaces where everyone can advance and thrive.
Cover image - Better Business: Procurer and Black-owned Businesses report
The relationship between procurers and Black-owned businesses that conduct business-to-business (B2B) commerce is enjoying growing economic influence. To better understand the dynamics of the procurer and B2B Black-owned business rapport, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation collaborated with the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Poole College of Management on research to gauge the experiences and attitudes of procurers and B2B Black-owned businesses.
The U.S. Chamber Foundation's Coalition to Back Black Business (CBBB) today announced it has awarded $5,000 grants to 324 Black small business owners representing 40 states, District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands, delivering on its mission to advance the long-term success and resilience of America’s Black-owned small businesses.

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.

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