The Chamber is proud to partner with more than 500 state and local chambers, associations, and businesses across the country. Through this work, we continue to develop research and data insights, convene key stakeholders to address EOI issues, advocate and drive action to advance policies and private sector solutions, and design programs, initiatives and partnerships that promote the promise of equal opportunity for all Americans.
Equality of Opportunity Initiative
Closing America's Opportunity Gaps
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched the Equality of Opportunity Initiative (EOI) to develop real, sustainable solutions to help close opportunity gaps in six key areas: education, employment, entrepreneurship, criminal justice, health, and wealth.
Driven by data and informed by conversations, the EOI agenda advances these solutions through private sector initiatives, and policy advocacy at the federal, state, and local levels.
Breaking down barriers
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The business community is pushing for private and public sector solutions to some of the underlying challenges driving inequality of opportunity for Black Americans and other people of color.
Member Stories
- A conversation with United Airlines on diversity in the aviation industryBrett J. Hart, President of United Airlines, sat down with Rick Wade, the Chamber's Senior Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Outreach, to discuss the importance of this commitment and expanding diversity in the aviation industry. Read more
- Chamber member Dr. Anton Bizzell, an accomplished physician and an inspiring community memberDr. Anton Bizzell is President and CEO of The Bizzell Group. He is not only an accomplished physician, but an inspiring community member helping clients build sustainable and innovative communities with wisdom, compassion, and integrity.Read more
- Chamber member Beau Shell has been an entrepreneur since he was eightBeau Shell started his business in 2012 when he asked his parents for an ice cream cart for his eighth birthday. Now he is CEO and Owner of Lil Ice Cream Dude's Cool World Ice Cream Shop.Read more
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By the numbers
We compiled this research to show the magnitude of opportunity gaps in six key areas. The findings inform our work as we continue to pursue targeted, data-driven, and sustainable solutions that will help deliver the American promise of equal opportunity to all.
More from EOI
- Events and ConversationsThe event series Equality of Opportunity In Action takes deep dives on topics ranging from board diversity to supplier diversity.Explore events
- Policy AgendaDriven by data and informed by conversations with business, government, academic, and civic leaders, we developed our policy agenda to advance private sector solutions and best practices, scale impactful programs, and drive policy action at the federal, state, and local level.Learn More
- Legislation AdvocacyThe Chamber has endorsed several EOI-related bills that close the digital divide, promote investment in opportunity zones, expand the availability and quality of affordable childcare, and address other issues on our policy agenda.
Latest Content
A deep dive into data shows increasing employment of millions of formerly incarcerated individuals, or those with a criminal record, would bolster the country's workforce and create opportunities for those who need a second chance.
This guide provides detailed information on second chance hiring tax credits and programs for employers who are willing to give individuals with a criminal record an opportunity.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Equality of Opportunity Initiative highlights ongoing strides in equitable employment and entrepreneurship, particularly impacting Black Americans.
Hans Edwards, co-owner of Edwards & Hill Furniture, enriches the community through charitable initiatives and mentorship programs.
Two Black Chamber executives reflect on the role of Black business in American history and key issues facing the community today.
Melody Birmingham, EVP for NiSource, shares how her company is taking steps to foster a sustainable and inclusive energy future for all.
As part of Black History Month, meet NextGen Alumni Kelsey Johnson and check out her journey from U.S. Chamber intern to walking the halls of Harvard University.
Disparities in infrastructure have cost too many communities valuable resources, time, effort, and money, leading to fewer opportunities for economic growth. The Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act can transform these underserved communities and improve quality of life for all people.
My strategic communications and production company Change for Balance makes hiring people with disabilities a priority—and our sauce is championing disability.
This Hill letter was sent to the Members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, supporting the nomination of Donald Cravins, Jr., to be Under Secretary of the Minority Business Development Agency.
