Ramsey County Launches Inclusive Employer Toolkit To Promote Workplace Equality And Announces Upcoming Workforce Summit

Ramsey County Launches Inclusive Employer Toolkit To Promote Workplace Equality And Announces Upcoming Workforce Summit

Ramsey County is making strides towards workplace equality through its Inclusive Employer Toolkit, an initiative aimed at eliminating unconscious bias and discrimination in local businesses. The toolkit, brought to life by Ramsey County Workforce Solutions and the Workforce Innovation Board (WIB), is a free resource assisting employers in creating inclusive environments through diversity and equity practices in recruitment, hiring, and retention. "Inclusion is good for all employers," Elisa Rasmussen, WIB chair, said. Stating its benefits, Donna Rapacz, the Director of Business Operations at Merrick Inc., credited the toolkit for revolutionizing their HR strategy and easing the employee recruitment process.

Along with the toolkit, Ramsey County also announced the Inclusive Workforce Summit, partnering with local institutions like the Science Museum of Minnesota and the St. Paul Area Chamber, to empower employers with networking opportunities and expert-led sessions. The summit, scheduled for January 29, includes sessions on accommodating employees with disabilities and promoting skills-based hiring. Offering free attendance, lunch, and parking, the summit represents a prime opportunity for businesses to enhance inclusiveness, with registration available online.

Meanwhile, small local enterprises are navigating growing regulatory landscapes, most recently adapting to St. Paul's minimum wage increase which took effect on January 1. For macro and large businesses, the rate rose to $15.97, while small and micro businesses can anticipate their adjustment come July 1. The city's new wage theft ordinance, deployed to ensure fair compensation, also kicked in with the new year. Details and complaint protocols can be found on St. Paul's official website.

Entrepreneurial spirits might find solace in the array of resources and programs catering to their ambitions. From the Neighborhood Development Center's Plan It! entrepreneurship training to the University of St. Thomas' Community Entrepreneurship Program, local initiatives are available to guide start-ups towards sustainable growth. To bolster these efforts, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is offering cost-sharing support via the Make It Minnesota program, and local laws have mandated a ban on the sale and distribution of compact fluorescent lamps, which is expected to reshape operational standards starting this year.

The city's commitment to fostering a robust economic environment continues with numerous upcoming events from workshops addressing legal needs to snow operation briefings, offering business leaders the tools they need to navigate their markets effectively. Notable events include the City of Saint Paul Supplier Fair, which promises insights into procurement and networking opportunities, and MEDA's Lending Essentials Course focused on educating minority business owners on securing funds.

As businesses enter the new year poised for change, the melding of communal support and regulation crafts a mosaic of possibility for current and future entrepreneurs within Ramsey County.

SOURCE: hoodline