“By working together, we as a business community have the opportunity to serve as a catalyst for change. We must harness the collective energy of this effort to drive action that will last well beyond our years and ensure a vibrant Collin County.”
Our Three Pillars
Support Black-Owned Small Businesses
diversification of the talent pipeline
Increase Black Voter Engagement
Supporting Black Owned Small Businesses
12.4%
% of black owned small businesses of all U.S minority owned small businesses (1 million)
34%
annual rate of growth for minority small businesses; twice that of national average
Large corporations buy the goods and services from 1.1 million small supplier businesses*, many of which are owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. These diverse businesses have recently been referred to as the “New Majority.” The most recent census data also reveals that there are 2.58 million Black-owned businesses in the United States, generating $150 billion in annual revenue and supporting 3.56 million U.S. jobs — a sizable footprint. By investing in Black-owned businesses and supplier diversity CCBA hopes to provide opportunities to underrepresented groups who might not have immediate access to resources or talent.
During the supplier diversity forum, CCBA members along with community leaders formed two panels on to discuss the importance of corporate supplier diversity programs and the certification process for small businesses. Hear from experts in the video or read here for event recap.
Corporate Supplier Diversity Program Spotlight
Diversification in Talent Pipeline
61%
% of people of color in the current workforce in dallas & collin county; trending up to three quarters in the emerging workforce (under 25 yrs)
$115 billion
The increase in combined GDP of Dallas and Collin counties if racial gaps in income were eliminated.
Minority populations are about twice as likely to be unemployed as whites, black students lag their white peers in educational attainment and achievement.
Jobs are essential to improving access to minority communities. Increased employment and educational opportunities would help with socio economic mobility leading to access to quality jobs, secure housing, and reduced student loan burden.
Sponsor an intern at the Urban Work College Program
Supporting Companies
Increase Black Voter Engagement
30 Million
number of black eligible voters, nationwide
90,107
number of government units in the U.S. according to the 2012 census. blacks make up 12% of the adult population but only 5% of office-seekers.
Companies and business leaders play an important role in spurring the conversation of civic engagement. Providing access to information like voter registration can help inspire voter engagement in communities that have historically been underrepresented.
For those inspired to take their civic duty to the next level, CCBA has developed additional resources in an ongoing “How To Run for Office” series, providing individuals with resources to navigate the journey into public office and how to overcome barriers along the way.
“Running for office is an attainable goal, and more people need to try it so they speak up for the underrepresented communities,” said Michael Dardick, CCBA board member. “We have to keep listening and learning. We’re trying to reach the same destination, so we might as well learn together.”
Collin County Business Alliance (CCBA) hosted a roundtable discussion with business and community leaders to discuss the importance of diversity in public service an imperative to a more inclusive community.
Listen to experts in the video or read here for event recap.