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Report from NGIN and RTI describes critical elements for building an inclusive cluster
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The authors outline the key decisions that go into creating inclusive clusters. “Creating an inclusive cluster requires looking through a ‘lens of equity and inclusion’ at every decision-making juncture to ensure barriers to inclusion are first identified and then addressed,” they note. The report lists and discusses the key decisions that influence the inclusivity of a cluster. These decisions include:
- Creating a governance structure that includes a more diverse group of people in the decision-making process;
- Focusing on an industry cluster that has a high probability of generating opportunities for marginalized groups;
- Locating job opportunities in places that are readily accessible to those who would benefit from them;
- Targeting existing barriers, such as lack of access to capital; and
- Providing training and job opportunities that coincide with local industry needs.
The report also includes examples of emerging lessons derived from interviews with individuals working in the field. These lessons included:
- It is better to start with leadership committed to inclusive processes and outcomes than to introduce that mindset later in the process.
- The inclusion process incurs expenses that should be anticipated and included in the budget.
- Coalitions must build trust within their community before developing an inclusive cluster.
The report illustrates these key decisions and lessons learned via five case studies of industry clusters supported by the Economic Development Administration’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge.
By: Michele Hujber
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How ecosystem mapping can aid your region – May 21, 2024, 1:00 p.m. MDT – Online
In this TBED Community of Practice webinar, experts from EcoMap and SourceLink will demonstrate how they approach developing ecosystem maps tailored to your region, as well as strategies to keep these tools up-to-date and seamlessly incorporated into your daily operations. This webinar will provide the actionable insights needed to integrate ecosystem mapping into your organization’s strategic toolkit.
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