Intentional Diversity in Action: A Case Study of The Tampa Bay Chamber (Fast Track)

The business relationships between organizations and their Black-owned community of stakeholders may be determined by the level of importance given to efforts that promote diversity and inclusivity. Diverse business practices have a significant impact on the sustainability of those relationships, also influencing the overall success for the local minority business community. The example showcases successful utilization of diversity implementation in continuous action by an organization who gave purposeful attention to behaviors that reflected devaluing and lack of inclusion for stakeholders. Attention to the cognitive awareness revealed is featured to express the importance of intentionality, believed to be relevant in the overall conscious behaviors that follow. Bringing attention to the efforts detailed in this case rationalizes claims that cognitive awareness and organizational intentionality can be used to support the premise of stakeholder value that is promoted by the stakeholder theory. The case highlights the rigor of persistent efforts involved in identifying a need for examining relational value, acting efficiently based on the results, and acknowledging where improvements toward stakeholder diversity can be made, ultimately circumventing obstacles associated with implementing positive outcomes. The overall goal was to emphasize that organizations who identify the benefits of intentional and purposeful action, decision-making and business strategies can successfully enhance the relationships they have with Black entrepreneurships, ultimately contributing to the continued economic growth of these entities.