Strengthening Yorkshire’s Business Backbone: The Power of Inclusive Growth

Across Yorkshire, our businesses are the lifeblood of the community. But to stay competitive in a global market, we must move beyond traditional models. True growth isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about the people behind it. That is why the Institute for Equity, University Centre is proud to champion a more inclusive future through our Yorkshire Equity & Inclusion Network (YEIN).

The “Why”: The Moral and Business Imperative

Let’s be candid: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is no longer a “nice-to-have” or a human resources checkbox. It is a strategic necessity.

• The Moral Case: Every individual deserves an environment where their unique differences are celebrated and where they have the tools to thrive.
• The Business Case: Research consistently shows that inclusive organisations are more innovative, better at problem-solving, and have higher staff retention.

A regional and joined up focus on EDI helps our local economy grow by bringing communities together and allowing businesses to flourish.

Partnering with the Experts: IEUC

Based right here in Huddersfield, the IEUC is the UK’s dedicated university for EDI. Our mission is to develop individuals, change organisations, and improve society through research-informed practice. By partnering with a local institution that possesses international reach, Yorkshire business leaders gain access to research and an evidence-based approach to EDI that understands what truly works.

The Yorkshire Equity and Inclusion Network (YEIN)

At the heart of this collaboration is the Yorkshire Equity and Inclusion Network, a dedicated, collaborative space for local businesses to enhance their EDI knowledge and practice. Unlike many corporate initiatives, YEIN isn’t about competition; it’s about collaboration and a community of practice where ambitions are propelled together.

What does the Network offer?

• Structured Connection: Annually, Network members receive five in-person sessions (2.5 hours each) and three virtual sessions (1 hour each).
• Co-created Agendas: Members help decide the issues for discussion, ensuring every meeting remains relevant to the current business landscape.
• Peer Support: The forum allows businesses to bring specific challenges to the group for peer review and expert guidance.

Flexible Support for Every Stage

We recognise that every organisation is at a different stage of its EDI journey. And our subscription model reflects this:

• Core Level (£1,000): Best for businesses looking to connect and learn from emerging issues.
• Targeted Bundles: Organisations can add specialised support, such as Staff Development (+£2,000) for workshops like “Unconscious Bias”, or the Accountability Partner bundle (+£4,500) for deep-dive policy audits and board-level governance sessions.

By joining the YEIN, you aren’t simply joining a network; you are joining a regional hub of best practice in EDI, aiming to make Yorkshire based businesses the most inclusive places to work in the country.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, contact us at: 01422-314- 044 or BDE@instituteforequity.ac.uk .