WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) has unveiled a report, titled “Seizing Opportunities: How Small Businesses Can Lead in Sustainability and Inclusion,” that sheds light on the critical role small businesses, particularly diverse-owned ones, play in driving sustainable and inclusive practices. This new research arrives at a crucial moment, the organization said, as businesses of all sizes face growing pressure to adopt responsible practices, aligning with the rapidly evolving market demands for sustainability and inclusion.

As corporations emphasize sustainability and inclusion, the need to understand how these movements impact small businesses is more pressing than ever. AEO’s latest report highlights the unique challenges faced by diverse entrepreneurs and emphasizes the tremendous opportunities available. The report is a call to action for small business owners, corporate partners and policymakers to unite and drive forward solutions that ensure the future success of small businesses in a competitive and sustainable economy.

Based on surveys of 505 small businesses and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, the report offers a blueprint for how small businesses can thrive in this changing landscape. It outlines the importance of supplier diversity, sustainability initiatives, and how small businesses can align their operations with larger corporate sustainability goals to become preferred suppliers and business partners.

“AEO is committed to driving forward the dialogue on sustainability and inclusion within the small business community,” said Natalie Madeira Cofield, CEO of AEO. “This report provides essential insights that will guide our efforts to support and empower diverse-owned small businesses. Our findings highlight the urgent need for collaborative action to ensure these businesses can meet the evolving demands of the market, and the insights provided will be invaluable for small businesses seeking to align with larger corporate sustainability goals.”

“The report underscores the competitive advantage small businesses can gain from implementing sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions,” said Laura Bryce, CEO of Hallstatt Holden. “These small businesses are increasingly becoming the preferred suppliers for large corporations and consumers alike.”

Cassie Carroll of the Green Business Engagement National Network added, “Small businesses have significant power to create change on a national scale, but to achieve this, more resources for both small businesses and support programs, along with policy, can really skyrocket sustainability and inclusion efforts nationally.”