Belonging builds prosperity.

The economy thrives when we all belong. Partners in Diversity® monitors the relationship between the community and the economy, participating in regular evidence-based research on employment demographics in the Oregon and southwest Washington region. We provide key insights into why employers struggle with recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, and offer actionable solutions and strategies. Our organization works with employers to apply these solutions and strategies, but also educates, provides networking opportunities, and maintains a career portal and resources that address immediate, direct needs.

A win for belonging is a win for business.

Mission

To create economic prosperity in Oregon and southwest Washington by working with employers to attract, retain, and develop professionals of color and diversity influencers.

Vision

A thriving, diverse, and welcoming community in which all people can work, live, and belong.

Values

Equity
Integrity
Courage

Partners in Diversity is a membership-based organization that operates as an affiliate of the Portland Business Alliance Charitable Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

2025 Annual Report

NW Natural is proud to be one of the founding companies of Partners in Diversity. Over the nearly 20 years we have benefitted from our partnership through education in the terrific programs, such as Breakfast for Champions, and the connections built through events such as sponsorship of the NW Equity Summit. Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a complicated and evolving topic and I have so appreciated having the support of Partners in Diversity to assist us on our journey in this important work.

- Melinda Rogers, Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer at NW Natural

History

2002

Say Hey!® started
A few professionals of color and community leaders came together to host small gatherings for networking and community building opportunities.

2004

The Leadership Council formed
with an advisory board under PBA Charitable Institute.

2005

Partners in Diversity® founded by the following organizations:

Azumano Travel
Cascadia Behavioral Health
City of Portland
Clackamas County
David Wright Tremaine
Fred Meyer
Housing Authority of Portland
Intel
Kaiser Permanente
Legacy Health Systems
METRO
New Seasons Market
Nike, Inc.
NW Natural
Oregon Health & Sciences University
PacifiCorp
Portland Community College
Portland Development Commission (now Prosper Portland)
Portland General Electric
Providence Health Systems
Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt
Stoel Rives
The Standard
TriMet
Washington Trust Bank

2006

A Business Case and Diversity Action Plan was published
2006
The CEO Forum started, providing strategic planning and leadership in diversity

2018

The Building Workforce Diversity Research Project published

2020

The Workforce Diversity Retention Research Project was published

2021

The NW Equity Summit by Partners in Diversity® started

2025

DEI Impacts of Organizational, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives in Portland published

Awards

2016

Portland Business Alliance Community Partner of the Year

2017

Social Enterprises Leadership and Innovative Partnerships to Advance Equity

2025

Travel Portland Community Connection Award