Diversity Equity and Inclusion Lighthouses 2025

Process and methodology for identifying Lighthouses1.2 Following a call for submissions by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the New Economy and Society, an independent panel of DEI experts (See Appendix for the list of experts that formed this year’s panel) with diverse backgrounds and expertise selected the 2025 cohort of eight Lighthouses and seven Highlights using the following four predetermined criteria: –Significance: assessing the magnitude of impact based on change against a baseline, number of people affected relative to the size of the target population, and/or the organization’s size, degree of transformative impact on the target group(s). –Quantifiability: assessing use of metrics to measure and drive further impact, based on a clear definition of the metrics, regularity of tracking, and the use of metrics towards accountability. –Scalability: assessing future-impact potential within or beyond the organization based on the set-up of the initiative, how the initiative has been scaled to date, and the future targets and definition of a path forward. –Sustainability: assessing the sustainability of the initiative and potential for long-term impact, based on the length of time that the initiative has been running, the initiative structure and governance, and the extent to which the organization is mainstreaming the initiative into its core business strategy. Common success factors across Lighthouse initiatives1.3 Five common success factors tend to mark the initiatives that yield the most significant, scalable, quantifiable and sustained impact for underrepresented groups (Table 1). While there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution, these elements can help set up an organization’s DEI initiatives for success. TABLE 1 Five common success factors across Lighthouse initiatives 1. Nuanced understanding of root causes2. Meaningful definition of success3. Accountable and invested business leaders4. Solution designed for context 5. Rigorous tracking and course correction –Understand the problem with a deep fact base –Identify the root causes –Get input from the target population, initially and throughout – Prioritize and sequence problem areas –Set clear and quantifiable aspirations (what and by when) –Articulate a clear case for change that moves employees to action –Set initiative as a core business priority –Hold senior leaders accountable for outcomes, not just inputs or activities –Model and lead desired change, starting with the CEO and senior leaders –Ensure resources for longevity in the budget, expertise and timeline –Develop solutions that address the root causes, with scalability in mind –Integrate changes into key processes and ways of working, so impact is sustained –Equip and encourage employees to contribute – Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement rigorous tracking process –Use data and feedback to course correct as needed Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lighthouses 2025 10