Celebrating AAPI Month: The Value of Diversity in Entrepreneurship
This May, we’re recognizing groundbreaking Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander entrepreneurs in tech. Year-round, the Invention to Innovation Center (I2C) celebrates the enduring value of diversity in the business landscape, particularly in the tech industry.
Start-ups and tech companies pride themselves on their problem-solving and creativity, to change the world for the better. Naturally, the greater the variation in perspectives, the more effective and unique solutions a team can find and implement.
“Diversity in entrepreneurship drives innovation. When different cultures are represented and listened to, new ideas are created.” - Arianna Kholanjani, former I2C intern
Diversity encompasses a wide spectrum of differences, from background and demographics to experience and skill sets. At the I2C, we proudly foster an inclusive environment where motivated individuals from all walks of life have a place to grow their businesses and reach their full potential.
Years of research have consistently demonstrated that diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones. A 2015 McKinsey report found that “companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35 percent more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians.” This underscores the tangible benefits to productivity and success.?
Women have long been underrepresented in the tech space, but their contributions should not go unnoticed. The Harvard Business Review examined a study from Innovation: Management, Policy & Practice and discovered that “companies with more women [are] more likely to introduce radical new innovations into the market over a two-year period.” By creating an inclusive workplace, your company can unlock new opportunities for growth and develop products that appeal to a wider customer base.
The I2C is proud to host Women in Technology // Huntsville, creating a welcoming community for networking and personal development. We empower women to achieve their full potential with scholarships like the toBE Fund, and monthly events. From guest speakers and career fairs to socializing and free food, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Through partnerships with the University of Alabama in Huntsville and our amazing business sponsors, almost all of our events are free for the public to attend. Space is limited, so make sure to RSVP for our next WIT//HSV event, coming up on June 5th!
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As the tech industry transforms and expands, it is clear that there is immense value in creating an inclusive and authentically diverse work environment. When people feel comfortable expressing their creativity, the possibilities are endless.?
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