Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber is dedicated to strengthening the communities of the Mahoning Valley's minority-, women-, veteran- and disability-owned businesses.

We are committed to making Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion a priority for our region’s business community. By recognizing and utilizing our differences, we strive to create unrestricted, inclusive, and equitable access to economic opportunities for all of our businesses. It is important that we value each business’s qualities, and we are dedicated to building networks of opportunities that provide diverse businesses with available resources and support.

We will promote inclusive growth through our practices, policies, membership services, and community engagement as we support our members and partners throughout the region. As part of our commitment to diversity, we seek to build an inclusive workforce and membership that reflects the diversified communities we serve. We are committed to ensuring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across all levels of the organization, making sure we’re reaching the cultural spectrum for all positions, including our Board of Directors.

Quicklinks

Take the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Survey!

Minority-Owned, Women-Owned, Veteran-Owned and Disability-Owned Member Directory

How To Do Business With Anthem

Small Business Resource Guide

We present the following Small Business Resource Guide as a starting point to help entrepreneurs, startups and existing businesses with navigating through the myriad of resources available in our local area. Service providers listed within this guide are dedicated to ensuring businesses have the resources needed to become sustainable and build our local economy.

New Initiatives

Opportunity Ready: Empowering Small Business Growth

Opportunity Ready is a distinguished small business accelerator program, proudly supported by the Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber and its community partners. This initiative is meticulously crafted to bolster late-stage startups and early-stage growth companies by enhancing their capabilities and capacities. With a focus on supporting local businesses, Opportunity Ready is dedicated to empowering local businesses, striving to make a significant and lasting impact on the micro and small business community.


Designed to assist entrepreneurs in scaling and growing their enterprises, this program also champions supplier diversity. Tailored to address the unique needs of micro and small business owners, our initiative focuses on helping you expand your reach and boost your revenue. The program invites select businesses to venture on a journey of growth and innovation, providing them with the resources and guidance necessary to make strategic investments in their future. By participating in Opportunity Ready, businesses gain access to a comprehensive suite of support designed to propel them towards success.


Program Highlights:
- Hybrid Learning Experience: Opportunity Ready offers a unique blend of on-demand e-learning modules and interactive in-person meetings. This dual approach ensures that
participants benefit from both flexible, self-paced learning and the enriching experience of face-to-face interactions.

- Peer-to-Peer Learning Environment: At the heart of Opportunity Ready is a vibrant community where business owners come together to share knowledge, experiences, and strategies. This peer-driven learning model fosters collaboration and innovation, enabling participants to learn from each other’s successes and challenges.

- Strategic Business Development: Tailored for businesses ready to scale, the program equips entrepreneurs with the tools and insights needed to enhance their operations, optimize their strategies, and expand their market presence. Participants receive expert guidance on critical aspects of business growth, from financial management to marketing innovation.

- Regional Impact: By focusing on local businesses, Opportunity Ready plays a pivotal role in strengthening the economic fabric of the Youngstown-Warren region. The program not only empowers individual businesses but also contributes to the overall vitality and resilience of the local business community.

Become a part of Opportunity Ready and set out on a journey of discovery and innovation that propels your business to new heights. Whether you aim to refine your business model, explore new markets, or cultivate a more dynamic organizational culture, this program provides the support and resources essential for thriving in today’s competitive environment. With a focus on changing mindsets, building a strong brand identity, creating more value, and differentiating your business, you will gain the competitive advantage needed for success.

Apply for the next Opportunity Ready Cohort


Empowering Inclusion, Inspiring Growth

The Inc Collab

Welcome to The Inclusion Collaborative, a dynamic community of advocates dedicated to transforming the business ecosystem through diversity and inclusivity. We are committed to
advocating for policies and initiatives that uplift under-represented and under-utilized minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises (MWVOBEs). Our collective efforts aim to break down barriers and create a thriving environment where every entrepreneur can access the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Together, we are crafting a future where inclusivity is not just an ideal but a reality.


Mission

At The Inclusion Collaborative, our mission is to champion an inclusive economy that fosters sustainable business growth and success for diverse local enterprises. We work tirelessly to expand supplier diversity, dismantle systemic barriers, advocate for equitable access to economic opportunities, and create pathways for prosperity for minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. Our commitment is to ensure that these businesses are not only present but are thriving contributors to our regional economy.


Purpose

Our purpose is to serve as a catalyst for transformative change within the business community by promoting equitable economic opportunities and outcomes. We are dedicated to bridging gaps and building robust networks, fostering collaboration and innovation. Through our advocacy and initiatives, we empower MWVOBEs to have a prominent voice and presence, ensuring they are integral participants in the economic landscape. We strive to create a culture of inclusivity where diverse businesses can flourish and drive economic growth.


Vision

We envision a vibrant and inclusive economy where all individuals in business, regardless of background, have the knowledge, skills, and resources to succeed. Our vision is an economy where diverse businesses are not only present but are leading the charge in innovation and prosperity. We aspire to build a future where economic equity and opportunity are accessible to all, creating a robust, dynamic, and prosperous regional economy. Together, we are paving the way for a business community that values and celebrates diversity, ensuring that everyone can participate in and benefit from economic success.

Inclusion Advocates

  • Steve Jones
  • Silvestor Frazzinni
  • Candice Dukes
  • Mandy Forlina
  • Tayana C. Smith
  • Tyler Williams
  • Stephanie Gilchrist
  • Scot Loveland
  • Stacey Grant
  • Alyssia Shaw
  • Charles Colvin
  • Ryan Kelly
  • Dionne Dowdy-Lacey


    DEI Council Membership

    Terrell Washington
    Owner & Operator H. L. W Fast track inc. (Chairman)

    Vern Richberg
    Director, Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Initiatives

    Tyler Williams
    Managing Partner Twin Realty and Leasing LLC

    Janel Gibbs
    VP Business Banking PNC Bank

    Angelo LoCastro
    Director Bridgewater Capital Youngstown Warren

    Stephanie Gilchrist
    Director, Economic Development, City of Youngstown

    Kareem Maine
    Plant Director Ultium Cells

    Derek Penn
    Charles Schwab

    Brian Kennedy
    Commissioner. Mahoning County Veterans Services

    Mike Latessa
    Executive Director, The Rich Center for Autism , Youngstown State University