The Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program

The Economic Opportunities Program (EOP) advances strategies, policies, and ideas to help low- and moderate-income people thrive in a changing economy. We recognize that race, gender, and place intersect with and intensify the challenge of economic inequality and we address these dynamics by advancing an inclusive vision of economic justice. For over 25 years, EOP has focused on expanding individuals’ opportunities to connect to quality work, start businesses, and build economic stability that provides the freedom to pursue opportunity. We collaborate with national and local leaders across the United States – nonprofit leaders, policymakers, labor leaders, business leaders, educators, academics, and more – and we actively seek input and ideas from individuals and communities affected by proposed approaches to address economic opportunity challenges. Through our leadership and fellowship programs; applied research and evaluation; data and analysis; and dialogue with diverse stakeholders, we work at both local and national levels to build understanding and galvanize action to address the challenge of economic opportunity in America. EOP encompasses efforts engaging different approaches toward expanding opportunity: the Business Ownership Initiative, Good Companies/Good Jobs, UpSkill America, the Workforce Strategies Initiative. In addition, across these approaches EOP hosts the Economic Opportunity Fellows Network and the Working in America event series. An Advisory Council offers insights, strategic counsel, and guidance in support of our work.