How three women are advocating for economic equity

By Aaris A. Schroeder | Solving Sacramento When first looking at the phrase “equity and inclusion in business,” one may draw the conclusion that they are synonymous, but the terms have clear-cut differences in the world of business — and both are equally important.Workplace inclusion ensures all perspectives and experiences are valued. Employees are able to thrive when they feel respected by peers, managers and upper management. Equity goes beyond respect. It aims to remedy past wrongs and create a level playing field where everyone has equal opportunities.These three women were all in Sacramento last month for a 1-day event at The Sofia focused on empowering women entrepreneurs to gain traction through angel investing, funding and other avenues — areas where women, people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals have been left out historically.Cheryl Beninga: empowering women entrepreneursFourthWave, Inc. is a technology accelerator program for women founders, which was co-founded by venture capitalist Cheryl Beninga. Launched in 2017, in partnership with Sacramento State University’s Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, FourthWave aims to provide women with the tools and support they need to succeed in a male-dominated industry. The program has helped women raise over $100 million in funding, helping more...