New Report Highlights the Business Risks of Reducing DEIB Initiatives

Businessolver®, a leading provider of SaaS-based HR and benefits administration technology, released its 2025 State of Workplace Empathy DEIB Special Report, uncovering the significant risks companies face when cutting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) programs.

CEOs Value DEIB, But Fewer Are Implementing Programs

Despite 85% of CEOs stating that DEIB initiatives are important, only 57% currently have programs in place—a 17-point drop from 2024. Employees at organizations without DEIB are 35% more likely to leave their jobs, highlighting the retention risks of deprioritizing these initiatives.

“Walking away from DEIB is risky business,” said Rae Shanahan, Chief Strategy Officer at Businessolver. “DEIB doesn’t just support culture—it drives performance and engagement. Treating it as expendable could jeopardize business outcomes.”

Impact on Employee Experience and Culture

Employees at organizations without DEIB programs report significant cultural gaps:

  • 33% say their company is not empathetic
  • Employees at companies with DEIB programs are 11 points more likely to feel connected to leadership (82% vs. 71%)
  • 10 points more likely to report a sense of belonging (90% vs. 80%)
  • 11 points more likely to feel they can be their authentic selves at work (88% vs. 77%)

Businessolver’s report estimates that U.S. employers perceived as unempathetic risk $180 billion annually in attrition.

Generational and Demographic Expectations

While most CEOs still see DEIB as critical:

  • 85% of CEOs, 81% of HR leaders, and 74% of employees agree DEIB is important
  • 85% of CEOs believe DEIB helps retain top talent

Younger generations and underrepresented groups expect greater DEIB commitment:

  • 73% of Gen Z and 68% of Millennials want more diversity efforts
  • 76% of Asian-American, 75% of Black, and 73% of Hispanic employees want greater DEIB initiatives
  • 72% of Gen Z expect public stances on social and political issues

Support also rose among Boomers, with 56% (+12 points YOY) advocating for more DEIB initiatives.

DEIB Correlates With Measurable Business Outcomes

CEOs reporting active DEIB programs observe tangible benefits:

  • 34% more likely to invest in employee benefits and wellness programs
  • Lower layoffs: 11% with DEIB programs versus 19% without

“Integrating DEIB into business strategy delivers measurable results,” Shanahan added. “Our employee net-promoter-score (eNPS) has improved by 92% over the past five years, reinforcing the importance of maintaining DEIB commitments.”

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