President Biden signed two Executive Orders to build a strong, fair, and inclusive workforce and economy by investing in communities historically denied equal opportunity. The Department of Commerce has developed the Business Diversity Principles (BDP) Initiative to encourage businesses to adopt best practices that promote economic growth in underserved communities through diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives. The Initiative recognizes the private sector's range of efforts that focus on DEIA and aims to inspire additional voluntary Business Diversity efforts, which Commerce Deputy Secretary Graves announced last month.

Commerce has issued a Request for Information (RFI) inviting the public to provide feedback on the Business Diversity Principles. The department seeks input from private sector employers, anchor institutions, workers, educational leaders, civil rights advocates, and other relevant stakeholders. The aim is to gather feedback to help refine the Business Diversity Principles and develop resources to support the private sector in enhancing and expanding its Business Diversity efforts. 

The Department of Commerce has developed a draft of Business Diversity Principles based on input from the private sector and subject matter experts. The draft Principles focus on executive leadership, organizational strategy, workforce development, human resources, community investment, and business opportunities. The department is interested in hearing from members of the public on the draft Principles. 

Commerce is also interested in hearing about existing Business Diversity efforts from the public and the business community. The department believes that the Nation's economic competitiveness depends on a highly-skilled, diverse workforce that can address companies' current and future needs. Private sector Business Diversity efforts aim to ensure that all workers, suppliers, and communities are included in the organization's economic prosperity. The department is interested in hearing about real-world examples of strategies and best practices relating to the Business Diversity Principles.

To respond to this RFI, please submit electronic public comments via the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal. Click the "Comment Now!" icon, complete the required fields, and enter or attach your comments. All comments must be received by February 2, 2024. The comment period was extended from January 5, 2024 to February 2, 2024, to give prospective commenters additional time to adequately consider and respond.

President Biden’s Executive Orders

• Executive Order 13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities through the Federal Government.
• Executive Order 14091, Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities through the Federal Government.