Delivering on Diversity

It was a practice for many businesses to implement diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies that support all people across gender, age, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs and other characteristics. These efforts have come under more fire since last year, when the Trump administration issued an order to end DEI initiatives in government and private sector companies. Businesses like Wal-Mart, Target, Disney, Google and Amazon have rolled back their DEI policies to comply, leading to public boycotts and protests.

Zeina Eyceoz, New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility’s executive director since August, says maintaining programs rooted in DEI principles is more important than ever. 

Eyceoz says workplace diversity doesn’t exist just on paper. And DEI in the workplace isn’t really in decline — diverse business teams do make a positive impact. 

“The evidence is overwhelming. It’s not just correlation — diverse teams make better decisions, drive more innovation and solve problems more effectively. This matters especially for workforce development, employee retention and long-term economic sustainability,” she says. 

Since its founding 25 years ago, the nonprofit NHBSR has supported and inspired local businesses to improve their workplaces through DEI and sustainability measures. 

Comprising more than 250 groups, from small businesses to large employers around New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts, NHBSR members share a common goal of building a better place where everyone feels welcome. 

Instead of removing these supports that help provide equal opportunity for businesses and employees as seen nationwide, NHBSR is adding yet more guidelines and initiatives to build up its mission.

This year, NHBSR is strengthening its DEI strategies by hiring a new business operations and finance manager and a new director of policy and advocacy. 

NHBSR’s decision to incorporate more advocacy work into their education strategy was solidified in 2021, when it rallied businesses to oppose HB 544, which aimed to limit DEI training for state contractors.

NHBSR: “New Hampshire will thrive when we engage the power of business and our people to build a sustainable and prosperous state for all.”

“That letter opposing the bill drew signatures from companies across New Hampshire, marking a turning point where NHBSR wasn’t just talking about values, but actively defending them in the State House,” she writes. 

“NHBSR builds its advocacy work on educating and engaging members first — it’s all about creating understanding before asking for action,” Eyceoz adds.

Among NHBSR’s diverse workplace initiatives include their flagship, Welcoming Workplaces, a DEI training program with learning modules, workshops and roundtables that educate others on workplace inequalities. 

Measure What Matters assessment tool contains information on inclusivity practices, helps companies track their progress, and improve inclusivity within the fields of climate, energy and workplace practices. 

“It’s about making inclusion measurable and actionable,” Eyceoz says. 

And its Pathways to Prosperity Initiative puts a spotlight on the systemic issues that target DEI practices, such as access to child care, affordable housing, immigration rights and education funding.

Eyceoz says their DEI advocacy strategy in 2026 will see regional roundtables to discuss ways to attract, and keep, talented workers around New Hampshire.

“That’s what NHBSR provides: a community of businesses that support each other in doing what’s right, even when it feels risky. You’re not alone, and there’s real strength in a collective voice,” Eyceoz says. 

For 2026’s Welcoming Workplaces & Communities program, NHBSR has joined with the NH Center for Justice and Equity, the NH Theater Project, and the Diversity Workforce Coalition to present dialogue sessions that foster a welcoming workplace culture.

“It’s practical, scenario-based learning that helps business leaders work through the real dilemmas they face,” Eyceoz says. 

Those interested in taking part can sign up at NHBSR.org.