DEI Reimagined: Development. Engage. Influence.
A Kingdom Strategy for Black Churches to Empower Communities & Entrepreneurs
In this new vision, DEI isn't just a corporate checkbox—it's a Kingdom blueprint for economic elevation, spiritual activation, and generational impact in the Black community.
The New DEI Framework

Influence
Leverage church power to shift policies and support Black businesses
Engage
Build intentional networks for collaboration and partnerships
Development
Invest in spiritual, economic and entrepreneurial growth
This reimagined DEI framework transforms churches into economic powerhouses that develop talent, engage communities, and influence marketplaces. Unlike corporate DEI initiatives, this Kingdom-centered approach focuses on building generational wealth and sustainable business ecosystems within Black communities.
Development: Train & Equip
Business Incubators
Launch in-church business incubators and entrepreneur courses
Monthly Workshops
Offer workshops on leadership, finance, business planning, and wealth-building
Skill Development
Provide career and skill development services for youth and adults
Resource Connection
Connect members to professional certifications, grants, and capital resources
Engage: Build Economic Ecosystems

Church Chamber of Commerce
Connect entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives within the congregation

Networking Events
Host quarterly expos, pitch nights, and vendor showcases

Resource Pooling
Create co-op buying clubs or resource pools for congregant-owned businesses

Internal Hiring
Identify needs within the church and hire from within the congregation
Influence: Lead with Purpose
Advocacy
Use the church's collective voice to advocate for local policy changes that benefit Black businesses and underserved neighborhoods.
Strategic Partnerships
Form partnerships with city planners, banks, tech hubs, and universities to position the church as a regional development engine.
Visibility
Spotlight and celebrate Black-owned businesses in worship bulletins, on church screens, and at community events.
Implementation Plan: Phases 1-3
1
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-2)
  • Appoint a DEI Strategy Team with sub-leads for each pillar
  • Assess church assets and congregant needs through surveys
  • Create a Church Chamber of Commerce with tiered membership
2
Phase 2: Development (Months 3-4)
  • Launch monthly business workshops and youth entrepreneur labs
  • Host "Kingdompreneur" Bootcamps with scripture + strategy
  • Organize pitch days with prizes or seed capital from donors
3
Phase 3: Engage (Months 5-6)
  • Launch "Business & Blessings Expo" after services
  • Organize Marketplace Mixers for business collaboration
  • Implement Church Buy Black Campaign within congregation
Implementation Plan: Phases 4-5
Phase 4: Influence (Months 7-9)
  • Incorporate "Marketplace Moments" during services
  • Develop sermons connecting spiritual growth to economic empowerment
  • Advocate for Black business incentives at city meetings
Phase 5: Sustainability (Months 10-12)
  • Host Annual Faith & Economic Impact Sunday
  • Recognize entrepreneurs, innovators, and community champions
  • Raise offerings to fund future DEI initiatives
Ongoing Evaluation
  • Conduct quarterly reviews of programs and outcomes
  • Adjust based on feedback and success metrics
  • Share success stories to inspire replication in other churches
Expected Outcomes
↑
Business Ownership
Increased ownership and business success among congregants
↻
Wealth Circulation
Greater economic circulation within the Black community
→
Next Generation
New generation of mission-driven entrepreneurs led by faith and vision
⬆
Church Transformation
Churches becoming hubs of innovation, not just inspiration