DIVERSITY EQUITY AND INCLUSION

creating more inclusive and effective workplaces

What is DEI?

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are key principles aimed at creating more inclusive and effective workplaces. DEI practices enhance organizational performance, innovation, and employee satisfaction by building a culture that supports and leverages diverse perspectives.

Diversity involves actively recruiting and employing people from various backgrounds, including different races, genders, and identities.

Equity ensures fair treatment and opportunities for all employees, addressing systemic barriers and creating pathways for advancement.

Inclusion goes beyond merely having diverse staff to actively fostering an environment where all employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute fully. 

(Note: Participants can choose multiple answers)

Building Equity in NYC through Manufacturing, Entrepreneurship, and Business Innovation (MEBI)

The Manufacturing, Entrepreneurship, and Business Innovation (MEBI) program, which concluded recently, aimed to boost BIPOC leadership and innovation in NYC's manufacturing sector. Launched in 2022, the program focused on increasing diversity in leadership roles, supporting career growth for professionals of color, fostering team innovation, and promoting inclusive work environments.

Participants: 43 professionals, mainly African American women with 7-10 years of experience.

Outcomes:

  • 43 participants reported increased confidence and business skills.

  • 39 participants developed business concepts and pitch decks.

  • 26 participants created prototypes or minimum viable products.

  • 22 participants sought external funding or applied to accelerators.

  • 20 participants pursued various types of external financing.

  • 14 participants established legal business entities.

  • 2 participants generated revenue from their products or services during the program.

The program, supported by organizations like the NYC Department of Small Business Services and MaiiC, aimed to address the lack of representative leadership in the sector and provide opportunities for underrepresented talent. MaiiC will continue to promote diversity in the manufacturing industry and offers additional DEI resources for interested parties.

DEI Webinar: Leaders Driving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the industrial sector

In response to growing calls for addressing racial disparities, MaiiC hosted a DEI webinar on March 3rd, 2021, focusing on how industrial leaders can advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within their organizations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Importance of DEI: Dr. LB Hannahs from Tangible Development emphasized that DEI is not only a moral and business imperative but also a survival one. As the workforce evolves, organizations must adapt to remain competitive and relevant.

  • Beyond Representation: Simply having a diverse staff is insufficient. True DEI means creating an environment where diverse employees can thrive and advance into leadership roles.

Real-Life Examples:

  • Brooklyn Brewery: CEO Eric Ottaway shared how the company realized the need to amend its recruitment strategies to truly open doors for diverse candidates in their brewing division.

  • National Grid: Melanie Littlejohn highlighted the importance of valuing diverse perspectives and ensuring they influence organizational work and advancement opportunities.

  • Bright Power: CTO Jamil Ellis discussed their approach, including benchmark assessments, honest discussions, and facilitated leadership training, focusing on operational pain points like hiring and retention.

Resources: