Diversity Impact Statement

The Ames Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate organizations maintain the belief that all people are allowed the freedom to express themselves respectfully. Embracing differences within the Chamber membership and community at-large makes the organizations stronger and better diversified. The Chamber believes in and stands for values of inclusion, equity and justice. To help advocate on behalf of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), we have gathered a list of resources you may find valuable to support and encourage everyone to be an ally. If you feel anything is missing from this list, please do not hesitate to reach out at 515-232-2310.
Focus Areas
Focus Areas
- Workforce - Deliver diverse programming and outreach initiatives to increase community inclusion.
- Workplace - Anticipate and address the current and upcoming needs of the changing workforce, i.e. childcare, demographic shifts, and housing affordability.
- Marketplace - Advocate for women and minority business enterprises and foster programming to inspire growth
A Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations

Join us each fall for the annual Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations, held in partnership with the City of Ames, Iowa State University and Story County. As we work to make Ames and Story County a more inviting place to live, work and do business, it is critical that we assemble programs like this to empower our members and the greater community. Local leaders who impact hiring, decision-making, organizational culture and environment are encouraged to attend this half-day event.
This year's event will be held on Wednesday, November 15 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center. Visit the event page by clicking here.
This year's event will be held on Wednesday, November 15 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center. Visit the event page by clicking here.
Minority Business Enterprise Directory |
DEI Facilitators & Consultants |
Strong efforts have been made to develop a comprehensive list of minority-owned businesses in Story County, Iowa. Included are self-reported business enterprises owned by minority persons. If you see a business missing from this list, please let us know!
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See how your company can benefit from DEI training by connecting with someone on this list of central Iowa facilitators. These professionals offer training in a variety of topics including DEI assessments, advocacy, ableism, LGBTQIA+ affirming topics and more.
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Additional DEI Resources
City of Ames Human Rights Commission
Join the Human Rights Commission and have a direct impact on minimizing or eliminating discrimination within our community. |
Iowa State University Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Iowa State offers many resources, such as the Principles of Community, to help build a diverse and inclusive community and educate the community on the importance of DEI. |
Society of Human Resources Managers (SHRM)
Access free resources from the Society of Human Resources Managers to learn how you can expand your DEI efforts in your workplace. |