Inclusive Workplaces Cohort
Thank you for your interest in the Inclusive Workplaces Cohort! Applications for the upcoming Cohort are now being accepted and are due by the end of the day on Friday, March 6, 2026. Details about the Cohort and the application form are provided below. If you have questions about the Inclusive Workplaces Cohort or the application process, please contact Becky Milbrandt at Rebecca.Milbrandt@ramseycounty.us.
An information session for all interested businesses to learn more about the Cohort experience will be held on Thursday, February 12 at 3 p.m. Register here for the information session.
What is the Inclusive Workplaces Cohort?
The Workforce Innovation Board of Ramsey County (WIB) is providing Ramsey County businesses with an executive leadership cohort learning experience. This initiative, in alignment with Ramsey County’s Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion Plan, will support employers in providing more welcoming workplaces to ensure we are amplifying the diversity of our community as a tool for economic growth. Businesses in Ramsey County will have the opportunity to participate in a peer learning community while advancing inclusion in their organizations.
Again in 2026, the WIB will partner with Altara Heights LLC (formerly ADR Consulting Group), an experienced facilitator who will create a learning environment that fosters discussion and sharing of ideas, while encouraging accountability through safe and brave spaces for confidentiality. Altara Heights' team of facilitators come from unique backgrounds and are well positioned to offer the cohort participants the tools needed to create workplaces that boost retention, employee productivity and engagement. Their mission is to help businesses adopt “people first business strategies” to create workplaces where the humanity and dignity of all employees are prioritized.
This program is sponsored by the WIB and led by the WIB’s Equity Committee with assistance from the Partnership and Outreach Committee. There is no cost to participating businesses.
Who should apply?
Eligible employers must:
- have a presence in Ramsey County.
- designate two participants who have decision making power or can facilitate organizational change.
- commit to attending all the sessions and completing a capstone project.
- agree to have their participation in the cohort shared out by Ramsey County and the WIB.
Up to 20 businesses will be selected to participate. Preference will be given to businesses with 10-250 employees (including all locations).
Why participate?
The goal of the cohort is to help employers accelerate belonging and connection within their organizations while building a sustainable workforce that drives stronger business outcomes.
When does the Cohort meet and what topics will be covered?
Beginning in April, the cohort will meet monthly (see the full schedule below). The in person sessions will be held at Wilder Foundation in Saint Paul.
| Cohort Session Dates | Session Title |
|---|---|
| April 8, virtual, 3-4 p.m. | Cohort Welcome and Orientation |
| Thursday, May 14 - in-person, 3-5 p.m. | Exploring Inclusivity in the Workplace |
| Thursday, June 18 - in-person, 3-5 p.m. | Social Identities and Positionality |
| Thursday, July 16 - in-person, 3-5 p.m. | Practicing Inclusive Leadership |
| Thursday, August 20 - in-person , 3-5 p.m. | Challenging Bias and Dominant Narratives |
| Thursday, September 17 - in-person, 3-5 p.m. | Creating Space for Dialogue and Conflict |
| Thursday, October 22 - in-person, 3-5 p.m. | Strategies for Sustaining Inclusivity Efforts |
| Thursday, December 3, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Cohort Recognition Event with the Ramsey County WIB at the MN Humanities Center |
Want to learn more about this cohort opportunity? Please contact Rebecca.Milbrandt@ramseycounty.us with any questions.
