In the summer of 2020, the AMIBA Board of Directors participated in a lengthy process to evaluate the role of AMIBA around the issues of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This process was led by our Board Member, Karen Spiller, and she expertly guided our Board through a deep, challenging, and provocative set of conversations. As a result of this dialogue, AMIBA unanimously agreed we would commit to placing racial equity at the center of our work to accomplish our vision for local economies that are green, equitable, and fair.
In June of 2021, AMIBA partnered with the American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC) to apply for a national Community Navigator grant from the Small Business Administration (SBA). The grant focused on supporting the growth and development of small businesses owned by diverse populations. The coalition of ASBC and AMIBA worked together to bring in nonprofit partners from all over the nation and apply for a $5 million grant composed of several small grants for nonprofits. Most of the 42 organizations from 11 states are led by people of color. In addition, they include eight organizations that serve tribal communities.
Recently, policymakers in Washington, D.C., began laying the groundwork for a more fair economy with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework and signing an Executive Order to promote fair competition. AMIBA will host a virtual convening in early October in collaboration with the Access to Markets Initiative led by the American Economic Liberties Project. This event will provide educational content to help business owners better understand how to take political action in favor of competition policy (how to engage the FTC, your state representative, etc.) and discuss the common monopolist tactics that stifle small businesses. Please stay tuned for more event details.
Please contact Executive Director, Derek Peebles, at derek@amiba.net if you have questions about this work.