A new survey has revealed that seven in eight companies plan to continue with diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programmes in 2025 despite the recent political backlash.
The research from Resume.org reveals resilience in DEI initiatives as most companies maintain or even expand their efforts despite mounting political and economic pressures in the US to scale back on DEI programmes. Around 1,000 companies with DEI programmes during 2024 were surveyed this month to understand how these initiatives are evolving in 2025. The findings challenge the narrative of widespread retreat from DEI, with only one in eight companies reducing or eliminating their programmes.
Key insights from the survey, revealed that:
- Seven in eight companies will maintain or expand DEI budgets in 2025.
- Political backlash is the leading reason for the reduced focus on DEI among companies scaling back.
- 40% of companies reallocating DEI funds are investing in artificial intelligence (AI) and other technology-driven priorities.
DEI FUNDING OUTLOOK
The survey found that while 5% of companies have eliminated their DEI programmes entirely, another 8% have chosen to reduce their budgets. In contrast, a substantial 65% plan to maintain their DEI funding, and 22% anticipate increasing it in 2025. Even amongst companies trimming DEI budgets, only 11% are considering phasing out these initiatives entirely in 2025. A smaller 8% predict their DEI programmes could be eliminated within the next four years.
The study found that political shifts are the top driver of reduced DEI efforts, cited by 49% of companies scaling back. Other factors include:
- Economic pressures (37%)
- Lack of measurable ROI or impact (36%)
- Employee resistance to DEI efforts (36%)
- Misalignment with business priorities (28%)
These findings highlight the challenges DEI initiatives face in gaining widespread acceptance within organisations. “Budget cuts and the difficulty of quantifying DEI’s impact lead some companies to deprioritise these efforts,” explained Career Coach Irina Pichura. “However, reducing DEI initiatives risks creating less inclusive workplaces and eroding psychological safety for underrepresented groups.”
EMERGING PRIORITIES
Among companies reallocating DEI funds, 40% are redirecting investments into AI and technology initiatives, reflecting a broader shift towards operational efficiency and innovation. Other areas benefiting from these budget adjustments include:
- General operating expenses (51%)
- Employee salaries and benefits (28%)
- Marketing efforts (24%)
- Office space and facilities (8%)
This pivot towards AI aligns with broader trends prioritising technology-driven solutions in the face of economic challenges.
THE FUTURE OF DEI
Despite these challenges, the majority of companies are staying committed to DEI in 2025, with many recognising its potential to foster inclusivity, innovation, and employee engagement. The survey findings reveal that seven in eight companies have chosen to stand firm or expand their DEI programmes, demonstrating the resilience of these initiatives against political and economic headwinds.
As businesses navigate an increasingly complex landscape, the enduring commitment to DEI among most organisations reflects its evolving role – not just as a moral imperative, but as a strategic priority for sustainable growth.
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