Equity-focused work may be a point of contention in today’s political environment, but it has not stopped the commitment of those dedicated to ensuring justice.
Recently, Operation HOPE Inc. hosted its Hope Global Forums Annual Meeting. This convening brought together community stakeholders and influencers to discuss how to move into the future through economic, technological, and cultural advancements.
During the meeting in Atlanta, GA, Hope Global Forum leader and CEO of Operation HOPE, John Hope Bryant, announced one of his goals to raise $100 million to fund the organization’s work of providing financial literacy and economic growth tools for individuals and small businesses.
While providing his final remarks, Bryant confirmed that he is well on his way to receiving that fundraising amount through partners and corporations including Delta, Shopify, Truist, and Bishop T.D. Jakes.
“Shopify, they’re ready for $60 million,” Bryant said. “Why did they do this? They are good people, but they want customers. They want black customers is the right answer. They called back and said, ‘It would be a lot of pressure on you, so we need to hire some people in Atlanta, not in Canada where we are. Here’s another million dollars for staff.’”
Key stakeholders made additional funding commitments for economic development justice work, including leaders at Truist, who pledged $20 million; Bob Pitman with iHeart Radio, who pledged $5 million; Target Foundation, which pledged $200,000; Chris Womack with Southern Company, who pledged $300,000; and other individual contributors and organizations, which pledged tens of thousands of dollars in support.
“As of this day, we’ve raised $98,370,376,” Bryant confirmed.
In addition to funding the economic development plans, Peacock and MSNBC announced a partnership providing $1 million to produce a documentary capturing the life and achievements of Ambassador Andrew Young, Hope Global Forums co-chair. The documentary is set to hit markets on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026.
The HOPE Global Forums are a platform designed to encourage discussions and actions focused on building an economy that includes everyone. The organization achieves this through events, digital engagements, research, and public policy efforts.
The Annual Meeting of the HOPE Global Forums brings together over 5,200 delegates from 40 countries, making it one of the largest gatherings addressing economic challenges faced by underserved communities. The meeting’s focus is to exchange ideas and develop strategies for addressing disparities in economic opportunities.
Since 2013, the Forums have facilitated more than 1,700 commitments to new and existing programs, volunteer initiatives, and mentorship efforts. These activities have supported Operation HOPE and impacted millions of individuals globally, focusing on economic empowerment for youth and adults.
The HOPE Global Forums emphasize creating opportunities within the free enterprise system to address economic inequities and expand access to resources.
