The membership program seeks to engage more businesses committing to advance racial equity.

Business Equity for Indy (BEI), a collective of local organizations committed to advancing racial equity and driving results for Black residents and residents of color, announces a new, free membership program. Through the new, free membership program, organizations will transparently share their commitment to and progress toward advancing racial equity. It is also an opportunity to join a collective, like-minded effort to learn best practices and find new resources to support their strategies for equity and inclusion.

“We are thrilled to introduce our membership program, which is a critical catalyst for change in Indianapolis. By joining forces with Business Equity for Indy, organizations can make a tangible impact in addressing racial disparities while unlocking the immense potential that diversity and inclusion bring to their businesses,” said Jeffrey Harrison, chair of Business Equity for Indy and President & CEO of Citizens Energy Group.

By becoming a member, businesses in Central Indiana can actively address inequity and promote a more inclusive and prosperous future for all with some specific, actionable commitments:

• Implementing or participating in several best practices, programs, and events;
• Providing data on their workforce, procurement practices, and public policy advocacy (to be published only in aggregate);
• Publicly sharing their progress as a collective business community to demonstrate the work accomplished and that inclusion is a key component of their organization’s strategy.

Organizations can choose between two membership tiers at no cost, Gold and Silver, each with different participation requirements aimed at advancing BEI’s pillars of People, Procurement, and Policy.

“Taking action against inequity requires more than just acknowledging the problem; it necessitates a genuine commitment to do the work,” said Melina Kennedy, CEO of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP). “Through the membership program, organizations can demonstrate their dedication to advancing racial equity while sharing key initiatives, goals, and resources on diversity and inclusion efforts in Central Indiana.”

BEI invites businesses of all sizes and sectors to become members and actively contribute to the collective mission of advancing racial equity and creating greater economic opportunity. By embracing this program, companies can foster a more inclusive workplace culture and gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining diverse talent, driving innovation, and building stronger connections with the community.

“Membership in Business Equity for Indy is a visible declaration of an organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, we can create a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” said Moira Carlstedt, Interim President and CEO of Indy Chamber.

“There is tremendous power in having multiple organizations committing to BEI membership and its goal to foster a more inclusive business environment,” said Tony Mason, president and CEO of Indianapolis Urban League. “Not only does it send the right message to employees, but it builds up the region as a place that cares about a more equitable future.”
For more information on BEI Membership or to join, click here.