Construction Inclusion Week hits record sponsorship numbers

Despite what it called a “politically charged atmosphere” around DEI, the industry-led initiative said it has attracted its most partnerships ever.

Dive Brief:

Construction Inclusion Week, the industry’s grassroots initiative to promote diversity within its ranks, has achieved a record number of sponsors for 2025 despite a politically charged environment where DEI efforts have come under fire, according to a news release emailed to Construction Dive.

The organization said it reached a new milestone with 132 sponsors representing contractors, trade partners and industry associations for its fifth annual running, which kicks off on Oct. 13. Organizers say that’s a 21% increase from last year, with 23 sponsors choosing its higher “Visionary” level, surpassing its original goal of 10 backers for that tier.

“Construction Inclusion Week began with a simple but powerful vision — to make our industry a place where everyone feels they belong and are treated with respect and dignity,” said Abrar Sheriff, 2025 CIW chair and president of Turner Construction, in the release. “That vision continues to gain momentum.”

Dive Insights:

The initiative’s fifth iteration comes at a time when President Donald Trump’s administration has targeted programs that foster diversity and inclusion both in federal contracting and in the private sector. Earlier this month, the administration issued a new rule for the Department of Transportation’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program banning gender or ethnicity as a grounds for certification, essentially gutting its original intent.

The CIW initiative began in 2021 in the wake of social upheaval after George Floyd’s murder when a spate of nooses appeared on jobsites across North America. Sheriff said this year’s event will continue to welcome all who want to work in the industry.

“By opening doors and creating inclusive pathways for people to grow and build meaningful careers, we are expanding opportunity and shaping an industry where all people can thrive,” Sheriff said.