Why LGBTQ+ inclusion can make you more innovative and competitive

The role of business has changed. Society now expects companies to create value for all of their stakeholders, rather than focusing on creating financial value for shareholders alone. Although this has been happening for a while, the inequities that the pandemic laid bare in our societies made it clear that this change is here to stay.

When I look at Accenture and so many of the clients we work with, I see companies who are driving equality and equity in their organizations, their communities, and the wider world. I see shared values and shared action. That’s hugely significant and powerful.

At Accenture, we know that our commitment to inclusion, diversity and equality creates an environment that unleashes innovation, allows our people to perform at their very best and underpins a culture in which everyone feels they have an equal opportunity to belong, advance and thrive. It has far-reaching benefits as part of the 360° value we create for our clients, one another, shareholders, partners, and communities.????

The 2022 Open For Business City Ratings is a key contribution to advancing inclusion, diversity and equality in cities where we live and work. This report shows the strong link between LGBTQ+ inclusion and economic competitiveness at the city level, all around the world. Higher levels of LGBTQ+ inclusion go hand-in-hand with innovation, talent attraction, and quality of life - all of which are key factors in a city’s long-term economic competitiveness. We are proud to have supported the Open For Business City Ratings since 2018.

Beyond strengthening this economic case, the 2022 City Ratings provide an invaluable resource for businesses hoping to use their platform to advance LGBT+ equality globally. These ratings can help inform where LGBTQ+ workers may need additional support to feel included and where companies should focus their public efforts to advance LGBTQ+ equality. It is an essential resource for companies like Accenture that operate globally.

Cities partnering with companies like Accenture can light a path toward LGBTQ+ equality, even in the face of adversity in certain parts of the world.

We are thrilled to share the 2022 City Ratings and look forward to creating a world that is more prosperous, inclusive, and equal for everyone.??

Check out the Open For Business City Ratings 2022