A survey has been launched to understand the barriers to increasing diversity across the Liverpool City Region business landscape.

The survey also intends to identify some of the key challenges and barriers for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic business owners when accessing business support and finance as they look to start, stabilise and grow.
Launched by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Local Enterprise Partnership, this survey forms part of the Metro Mayor’s Race Equality Programme for the Liverpool City Region, working alongside Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic community leaders in the region.

The aim will be to improve business performance through increased diversity as well as tackle the long-standing structural inequalities faced by Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic businesses with firm plans for action.
Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:

“Whether it was the global outpouring of anger following the death of George Floyd, or the disproportionate impact the COVID pandemic has had on different communities across our City Region – the events of this year have bought into sharp focus the deep-seated and structural inequalities which still exist in our society.

“As part of our wider work to try and tackle these inequalities, we’re launching this survey to understand the specific needs of, and challenges faced by Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic led businesses. We know that more diverse businesses tend to be more successful businesses. I want these frank conversations with local Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic business leaders to help us create the most vibrant, diverse and prosperous local economy possible.”

We would encourage all businesses to take part as the findings will be used to inform where and what support may be needed. The survey should take 15 minutes to complete, and closes on Monday 25th January.

You can access the survey here