The United States Department of Commerce has published an update to its 2023 Equity Action Plan, outlining new commitments aimed at promoting equity. The Equity Action Plan forms part of the Department's initiatives to ensure equal opportunities for all Americans.

Since the introduction of the first Equity Action Plan in 2022 by the Department of Commerce, significant strides have been made. The Department has allocated $3 billion in American Rescue Plan funds across six economic development programs and reduced the cost of providing high-speed internet to underserved communities, thereby enhancing the resilience of the United States' internet infrastructure. In addition, it has supported Indigenous communities and tribal governments by investing over $100 million across 25 states and in the Northern Mariana Islands. These equality efforts form part of a broader plan to ensure equal access to resources nationwide and help the country reach its full economic potential.

Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves lauded these achievements, saying, "Thanks to President Biden’s continued and steadfast commitment to supporting underserved and underrepresented communities, this Administration has made historic progress towards achieving equity-centered initiatives." He added, "Through investments in business grants and funding opportunities, the Secretary and I are proud of the Commerce Department’s efforts in promoting equitable and inclusive capitalism that will pave the path to America’s economic prosperity."

According to a press release by the Department of Commerce, five equity strategies have been identified to bolster support for the Equity Action Plan. These include leveraging national diversity to fuel innovation and maintain global competitiveness across geographic regions; expanding growth opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities; promoting equitable economic development and career pathways; using targeted investment programs to address climate change through resilience efforts; and expanding opportunities through data discovery. The data collected will be instrumental in creating actions that improve outcomes for communities.