By Resume.Org
Photos: YouTube Screenshots
KIRKLAND, WA – Resume.Org, the leading platform for building a resume, has released a new survey report examining the future of corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The survey of 1,000 U.S. business leaders at companies with DEI programs in 2024 reveals that 1 in 8 companies are reducing or eliminating DEI efforts this year, with many citing shifts in the political climate as a key factor.
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According to the survey, 5% of companies have already eliminated their DEI programs, while another 8% have significantly reduced their DEI budgets. Among companies that have maintained or cut DEI funding, 11% say they are likely to phase out DEI programs entirely in 2025, and 8% expect to do so within the next four years.
Nearly half (49%) of companies scaling back or cutting DEI initiatives point to political climate changes as a driving factor. Other reasons include economic pressures (37%), lack of measurable impact (36%), and employee resistance (36%). Additionally, 56% of hiring managers believe that DEI programs were primarily implemented for public relations purposes rather than meaningful workplace change.
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“Many companies have faced budget cuts and may view DEI as non-essential, reallocating resources to more immediate profit-driven areas,” says Career Coach Irina Pichura. “Some companies also abandon DEI programs due to difficulties quantifying their impact, leading them to question their value. However, eliminating DEI programs can result in less inclusive workplace cultures and reduce psychological safety for underrepresented groups.”
As DEI efforts decline, companies are shifting resources elsewhere. More than half (51%) of businesses reallocating DEI funds are redirecting them toward general operating expenses, while 40% are investing in AI and technology initiatives. Other reallocations include employee salaries and benefits (28%), marketing (24%), and office space (8%).
The survey was conducted via Pollfish in January 2025 and included 1,000 respondents. You can view the full write-up here.
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