AAPI Groups at Work: A Guide to Starting and Growing Your AAPI ERG

What does it mean to thrive in a space where your name is mispronounced, your lunch is mocked, or your silence is mistaken for apathy?
For many members of AAPI groups in the workplace, this isn't an occasional discomfort; it’s a daily reality. While the AAPI community is one of the fastest-growing demographics in the U.S. workforce, their experiences often go unseen or misunderstood. From casual exclusion to systemic barriers, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander employees navigate a workplace that doesn’t always know how to fully include or celebrate them.
But that’s beginning to change. Across industries, AAPI employee resource groups (ERGs) are building spaces where cultural pride is amplified, professional growth is prioritized, and belonging becomes the norm. These groups are creating opportunities for mentorship, visibility, and community, not just for AAPI employees, but for everyone.
If you want to create a workplace where your Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees feel seen, supported, and celebrated, this guide will show you how to get started. We’ll walk you through everything from what AAPI ERGs are to how to launch and grow one with intention—plus real examples, naming inspiration, and actionable tips to help every voice be heard.

What are AAPI Employee Resource Groups?

AAPI ERG stands for Asian American and Pacific Islander Employee Resource Group. An AAPI Employee Resource Group (ERG) provides a platform for employees to connect, share their experiences, and advocate for themselves and their communities. It is an employee-led group within a company that offers support, resources, and a sense of belonging for individuals who identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander, or who feel connected to these communities.

In many workplaces, AAPI employees come from diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, and lived experiences. An AAPI ERG brings these voices together, creating a space where individuals can build meaningful connections, exchange perspectives, and feel understood. These groups often act as a bridge between employees and leadership, helping to highlight challenges, share insights, and foster a more inclusive workplace environment.

Beyond community building, an AAPI employee resource group also plays an important role in professional development. It can provide opportunities for mentorship, networking, and leadership growth, helping members navigate their careers with greater confidence and support. Many AAPI groups also organize cultural events, awareness sessions, and discussions that help educate the broader organization and foster mutual understanding.

Why Do Companies Build AAPI Employee Resource Groups (ERG)?

Flowchart detailing the benefits of AAPI ERG
Benefits of having an AAPI ERG in your workplace

AAPIs represent a significant and growing consumer base:

  • The Asian American population is the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the United States, growing from 4% of the entire US population in 2000 to 7% in 2023 (Pew Research)
  • In 2020, the buying power of Asian Americans was about $1.3 trillion and was projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2025 (Nielsen).

By supporting AAPI ERGs, companies can gain insights into AAPI cultures, values, and preferences, which can inform marketing strategies and improve customer engagement.

Why AAPI ERGs Benefit Companies

Creating an AAPI employee group isn’t just good for people, it’s good for business. When employees feel seen, supported, and connected, it shows up in how they work and what they bring to the table.

1. Better Business Performance

A study by McKinsey & Company found that companies in the top quartile for both gender and ethnic diversity in their executive teams are 39% more likely to outperform their peers financially.​ When people from different backgrounds contribute to decision-making, companies unlock new ideas, better problem-solving, and more creative strategies. This diversity of thought allows organizations to approach challenges from multiple angles, leading to more balanced and effective outcomes.

AAPI ERGs contribute to this by creating spaces where employees can share perspectives that may otherwise go unheard. These insights can influence internal decisions, improve team dynamics, and even shape how companies approach new opportunities and markets.​

chart comparing average profitability for companies with high ethnic acceptance rates.
McKinsey’s analysis on how companies with ethnic acceptance are 36% more likely to have above average profitability.

2. Attracting and Keeping Talent

Employees want to work where they feel valued, not just for what they do, but for who they are. AAPI ERGs send a clear message: "You belong here." Companies like Google and Salesforce highlight their AAPI groups in recruitment materials, showing prospective hires that there’s a support system waiting for them. And for current employees, that sense of belonging can be the difference between staying and walking away.

In addition to attracting talent, AAPI employee resource groups help employees build meaningful connections within the organization. These networks can support mentorship, peer learning, and career growth, making employees feel more invested in their roles.

When employees feel supported through AAPI groups, they are more likely to stay engaged, contribute actively, and grow within the company, reducing turnover and strengthening overall team stability.

3. Stronger Collaboration and Innovation

When people feel safe to speak up, they bring more to meetings, question the status quo, and push teams forward. ERGs give employees the confidence to share ideas they might otherwise hold back, which can be a game-changer for innovation. At Adobe, the Asian employee network has helped shape everything from product design choices to new market strategies.

AAPI ERGs help create this environment by encouraging open dialogue and fostering trust among employees. When individuals feel heard and respected, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and contribute diverse ideas.

This not only improves team dynamics but also leads to more innovative solutions, as employees bring diverse perspectives and experiences to problem-solving and decision-making.

In short, when companies invest in their people, their people invest back.

How to Measure the Success of Your AAPI ERG

Building an AAPI ERG is a strong first step, but understanding its impact is key to its growth, sustainability, and long-term support. Tracking success helps AAPI groups evolve from community spaces into strategic drivers within organizations. While many organizations begin by tracking participation, the most effective AAPI groups go a step further by measuring how their efforts influence employee experience, engagement, and business outcomes.

An AAPI employee resource group becomes truly valuable when it moves beyond events and starts creating measurable change across the workplace. Here are a few ways to evaluate how your AAPI ERG is performing:

1. Participation and Attendance Trends

One of the simplest ways to assess your AAPI ERG is to track how many employees join and attend events over time. Look for patterns across different types of activities such as cultural celebrations, leadership sessions, or volunteering initiatives.

A steady increase in participation often indicates that your AAPI group is building visibility and trust within the organization. On the other hand, fluctuating or declining attendance can signal the need to rethink programming or communication strategies. Breaking this down by department, tenure, or location can also reveal where engagement is strongest and where more outreach may be needed.

2. Employee Feedback and Sentiment

Numbers tell part of the story, but employee sentiment reveals the real impact. Regular feedback through surveys, informal check-ins, or post-event forms can help you understand how members feel about the AAPI employee resource group.

Ask questions like:

  • Do employees feel more connected since joining the AAPI ERG?
  • Are the events relevant and meaningful?
  • What would they like to see more of?

Consistent positive feedback shows that your Asian employee resource group is creating a space where employees feel heard, supported, and valued. Combining ratings with open-ended responses helps capture both measurable data and personal experiences.

3. Retention and Internal Mobility

A strong AAPI ERG can help improve retention and career growth. Track whether employees involved in AAPI groups are staying longer within the organization and progressing into new roles or leadership opportunities.

While the ERG may not be the sole driver of this, it remains an important indicator of how supported and engaged employees feel. Over time, you may notice that active members of your AAPI employee resource group are more likely to take on new challenges or step into leadership roles. Working with HR teams to review anonymized data can help identify meaningful trends across AAPI employee populations.

4. Engagement Scores

Employee engagement surveys are another useful way to measure impact. Comparing engagement levels between employees who participate in AAPI ERGs and those who do not can provide valuable insights.

Higher engagement scores among AAPI ERG members often reflect:

  • a stronger sense of belonging
  • improved workplace satisfaction
  • increased motivation and collaboration

Looking closely at responses related to connection, inclusion, and team culture can help highlight the influence of your AAPI groups.

5. Program Impact Across the Organization

Beyond internal engagement, it’s important to evaluate how your AAPI ERG contributes to the broader organization. This includes the impact of initiatives led by your Asian employee resource group, such as:

  • cultural awareness sessions that improve cross-team understanding
  • partnerships with external AAPI nonprofits
  • contributions to hiring, onboarding, or internal programs

When your AAPI ERG begins influencing conversations beyond its core members, it signals a shift from being a community group to becoming a strategic contributor. Documenting key initiatives and their outcomes can help demonstrate long-term value and strengthen leadership support.

6. Consistency and Long-Term Growth

Success is not defined by a single well-attended event or a short-term spike in interest. It is built through consistency over time. A thriving AAPI ERG shows steady growth in participation, deeper engagement, and increasing influence across the workplace.

Reviewing progress regularly, whether quarterly or annually, helps your AAPI group stay aligned with its goals while continuously improving its approach.

Strong AAPI ERGs are often measured not just by participation, but by long-term impact on employees and culture.

Benefits for AAPI Groups at Work

1. Community Building:

AAPI employee groups create a space where people with shared cultural backgrounds and experiences can come together. It’s about finding your people a place where they can feel understood, supported, and connected in a workplace that can sometimes feel overwhelming or unfamiliar. This community helps people build friendships, share stories, and celebrate their heritage together.

2. Professional Development:

These groups often offer opportunities for professional growth. Whether it’s leadership workshops, networking events, or skill-building sessions, AAPI ERGs help members learn, develop, and prepare for the next step in their careers. This support can open doors, boost confidence, and create pathways to new opportunities within the company.

Did you know? Companies with active ERGs see 30% higher internal promotion rates for diverse talent.

3. Advocacy:

AAPI groups stand up for their members by bringing attention to their unique challenges and needs. They work to ensure the workplace is fair and welcoming, advocating for policies and practices that respect and include everyone. These groups give a collective voice that helps influence change and make the company a better place for all.

4. Employee Engagement:

When people feel included and appreciated, they’re more engaged at work. AAPI groups help create that sense of belonging by recognizing and celebrating diversity in ways that feel authentic. This makes employees feel valued and motivated, which leads to stronger teams and better collaboration.

5. Cultural Awareness: 

A study reflects that cultural awareness training via ERGs reduces workplace bias incidents by 28% annually.

AAPI ERGs also educate the wider workplace about Asian and Pacific Islander cultures, traditions, and experiences. Through events, workshops, and storytelling, they help break down stereotypes and build understanding. This helps everyone appreciate the richness of AAPI heritage and creates a more respectful and inclusive environment for all employees.

Examples of AAPI ERGs and Their Mission Statements

Now that we’ve explored the purpose and impact of these groups, let’s look at how some companies are bringing them to life. Below are real examples of Asian employee resource groups from different organizations, along with their mission statements. These examples offer a glimpse into how others are supporting their AAPI communities and may spark ideas for creating your own group at work.

1. Georgetown University:

Susan Cheng, Senior Associate Dean and associate professor, and Jesse Szeto, Senior Director, led the formation of AAPI ERG at Georgetown university. What started as a lunch group in 2018 has now evolved into a full-fledged ERG that cultivates an inclusive and supportive environment at Georgetown and provides employees with opportunities for networking and community-building.

georgetown university aapi
Image Source: Georgetown University
Mission staement:

The ERG will highlight the diversity of our community from Pacific Islanders to South Asians to Southeast Asians to East Asians. They aim to cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment at Georgetown and provide employees with opportunities for networking and community-building.

2. Boston.Gov 

The Asian and Pacific Islander American Employee Resource Group (APIA ERG) provides a platform for employees to connect, celebrating their diverse cultures and experiences, and advocating for their needs and concerns.

Mission statement:

APIA ERG aims to foster a sense of community and belonging by creating a safe space for APIA employees with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and points of view. Highlight the diverse cultures of the APIA community through storytelling, advocacy, and other work deemed appropriate by the ERG. Support APIA employees’ professional development through networking and learning opportunities

3. Corning

Corning has a diverse workforce of over 1,200 Asian employees in the United States, hailing from various cultures across the globe. Corning sponsors about 15 ERGs that cover all race, culture, and ethnicity.

Mission statement:

The Employee Resource Groups for Asian employees at Coring promote an inclusive environment for all Asian employees. These groups provide their members with the ability to share their cultural heritage through cultural events, offer educational and professional development opportunities, networking, and social gatherings.

4. Oakland University

Presided by Tomoko Wakabayashi, Oakland university’s AAPI ERG strives to raise awareness of AAPI issues, support AAPI faculty and staff, foster discussion and an inclusive environment and improve reporting transparency at OU.

Mission statement:

The AAPI Employee Resource Group is a staff- and faculty-driven collective dedicated to supporting and advocating on behalf of all Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander employees at Oakland University (OU).

5. Portland State University

The vision of the PSU API ERG is to empower Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander employees to create an inclusive, just, and equitable community.

Mission statement:

The Portland State University (PSU) Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Employee Resource Group (API ERG) provides an inclusive space to advocate for the diverse needs of PSU API faculty, staff, students, and alumni; including, but not limited to Supporting and empowering API students, Recruitment and retention of API faculty, staff, and student employees, Facilitating professional development, Promoting API educational, cultural and social awareness. Their mission aligns with PSU's diversity initiatives and strategic goals, as well as provides leadership regarding PSU API faculty, staff, student, and alumni issues.

6. Berkeley Lab

Chaired by Sandy Roth and Alicia Chang, the Berkeley Lab API ERG community envisions an environment where API members can be their authentic selves, valued, and supported to achieve their full potential. A diverse community that recognizes and supports individual contributions, celebrates each other and stands together.

The Asian and Pacific Islander Employee Resource Group is committed to:

  • Ensuring API employees have access to the support and capacity building they need to reach their fullest potential,
  • Sharing and raising awareness about issues facing API employees and the community at large,
  • Educating the Lab community about the rich and varied cultures encompassed by API heritage,
  • Partnering with other ERGs to ensure equity of opportunity and recognition for all,
  • Serving as a resource for the wider Lab community to further the IDEA effort,
  • Stand in solidarity against racial inequity and discrimination in all forms within our Lab community and working to build an environment that provides equal respect and opportunity for all.

7. PJM Asian American Employee Resource Group

PJM’s Asian American Employee Resource Group aims to Inspire and raise awareness of Asian cultures through events, share leadership and career development, invite speakers, and offer volunteer opportunities.

Mission statement:

The Asian American employee resource group is dedicated to promoting Asian American employees the opportunity to interact with one another and share cultural and career inspirations within PJM and outside the company to a larger community in the industry. All PJM employees are welcome to join the ERG for networking, culture sharing, career development, and all other activities. The group meets several times a year to work on ideas that have a common interest within the group.

8. Los Alamos National Laboratory

The API employee resource group was established in 2019 by Lab director Thom Mason to foster inclusivity and advocate for API needs, connections, and equity.

Mission statement:

API employee resource group’s mission is to be a resource for individuals of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) backgrounds and create advocacy within the Lab. They strive to be an inclusive place for API Lab employees to come and celebrate achievements within the community.

9. Progress’s ASPIRE

ASPIRE’s founding members Wei Qiu, Dapeng Wu, Vaishali Jayaprakash, Soofia, and Koyin Shih are motivated towards making strong connections with many AAPI ERGs and uplifting API voices and perspectives. Progress’s ASPIRE- API ERG mission statement:

 ASPIRE- API ERG is committed to

  • Connect APIs and allies and provide a safe space to share challenges and support each other.
  • Celebrate and promote the unique cultures, voices, and viewpoints of the API community. 
  • Coach and counsel APIs in career development and networking.
  • Communicate and encourage conversations that broaden the awareness of the API community and APAC region.
  • Contribute to our local communities through outreach activities.

10. Johnson & Johnson 

The founding members of ASIA were Dr. Kapil Dhingra and Dr. Alex Chang, who recognized the need to create a space for Asian employees to connect, collaborate, and drive innovation within the company. The founding members of SAPNA, including Rajendra Aneja, Arun Kumar, and Aparna Murthy, recognized the need to support and promote South Asian employees within the company, and to foster a more inclusive workplace culture.

Mission statement:

Johnson & Johnson’s Asian Society for Innovation and Achievement (ASIA), and South Asian Professional Network Association (SAPNA) ERGs represent a network of Asian leaders and employees working toward accelerating the growth, development, and visibility of Asian talent through coaching, mentoring, and leadership development initiatives and showcasing cultural diversity. In addition, the groups offer networking and opportunities to be engaged in community service and process/ product innovation that contribute to business growth.  

How to start an AAPI Employee Resource Group at your organization

Pointers to start an AAPI employee resource group
Steps to start your own AAPI ERG at work

How to Start an AAPI ERG at Work: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting an AAPI employee resource group can be a powerful way to support Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander employees while enriching your workplace culture. Whether you're just getting started or refining your efforts, here are some essential steps to launch your AAPI group:

Step 1: Survey Your Employees

Start by listening. Before setting up your group’s goals, take the time to understand the real needs, interests, and expectations of your AAPI colleagues. An internal survey can be a great way to gather insights that will shape the foundation of your ERG’s mission.

Example survey questions:

  • What would you like an AAPI ERG at [Company Name] to focus on? (e.g., networking, mentorship, cultural events, advocacy)
  • Are there specific challenges you face at work as an AAPI employee?
  • What kinds of events or activities would you be most interested in participating in?
  • Would you be interested in taking on a leadership or organizing role within this group?

Step 2: Define Your Goals and Mission

With feedback in hand, the next step is to craft a clear mission statement. Ask: What do we want to achieve together?

Some ERGs focus on professional development, others on cultural celebration, mental health, or community advocacy. Your mission doesn’t need to be perfect from day one—it just needs to reflect your team’s shared purpose. A clear mission will help your ERG stay focused, relevant, and aligned with your company’s broader commitment to belonging and representation.

Example mission: “To create a safe, empowering space for AAPI employees to connect, grow, and lead, while fostering a workplace that truly celebrates the richness of different cultures and identities.”

Step 3: Get Executive Sponsorship

Support from leadership can make or break an ERG. An executive sponsor, someone at the director or VP level, can advocate for your group, help secure budget, open doors to key decision-makers, and make sure your efforts are recognized across the organization.

Pro tip: Choose someone who’s genuinely passionate about inclusion, not just a figurehead. Their involvement should feel authentic to your group.

Step 4: Recruit Members and Elect Leaders

A strong ERG starts with a strong core team. Begin by inviting interested employees across departments to join. Look for people with diverse backgrounds, skills, and interests to represent the richness of AAPI identities and experiences.

Form a leadership team with clearly defined roles:

  • Chair or Lead: Guides the group, sets meeting agendas
  • Events Coordinator: Plans programs, cultural celebrations, or speaker sessions
  • Communications Lead: Shares updates and builds awareness internally
Pro tip: Leadership should be rotational and inclusive, giving more voices a chance to step forward over time.

Step 5: Set Your Agenda

Once your group is formed, it’s time to build an annual or quarterly plan of activities. Your agenda should align with your mission and reflect what your members want most.

Examples of activities:

  • Celebrations for Lunar New Year, Diwali, or Pacific Islander heritage events
  • Leadership development workshops
  • Panels featuring AAPI leaders inside and outside your organization
  • Volunteer opportunities supporting local AAPI communities
Pro tip: A healthy mix of cultural, social, and professional programming keeps engagement strong.

Step 6: Organize Your First Meeting

Your launch meeting is your chance to set the tone and build excitement. Make it welcoming, informal, and inclusive.

Consider including:

  • A brief introduction to your ERG’s mission
  • Personal stories from members or leaders
  • An overview of upcoming events
  • Time for attendees to introduce themselves and share what they hope to gain from the group
Pro tip: Leave space for feedback and participation to drive engagement and tailor the ERG to your people.

Naming Your AAPI ERG: Why It Matters

Your ERG's name is more than a title—it sets the tone for everything your AAPI group stands for. It’s often the first impression, so take the time to get it right. Here’s what to consider:

1. Embrace Cultural Differences

Choose a name that embraces the full diversity of AAPI cultures from East Asia and Southeast Asia to South Asia and the Pacific Islands. Steer clear of labels that leave someone out. Some names are unintentionally narrow or outdated. Choosing a thoughtful name shows you’ve considered the variety of AAPI backgrounds and experiences.

Example: Avoid using "Asian Alliance" if your goal is to include Pacific Islanders and South Asians, too. A name like "AAPI Connect" or "Pacific & Asian Voices (PAV)" feels broader and representative.

2. Having a Clear Purpose

Make sure the name reflects your group’s purpose. Are you here to build community? Advocate for equity? Celebrate culture? The name should say so.

3. Something Easy to Remember

Keep it simple and memorable. Avoid jargon or overly long names that people may forget or mispronounce.

4. Be Creative and Unique

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Think of a name that sparks curiosity, pride, and belonging while still feeling appropriate for a workplace setting.

Growing and Engaging Your AAPI Group

Once your API ERG is up and running, it’s time to grow and engage your members. A thriving AAPI ERG builds stronger bonds between employees and creates more meaningful moments at work.

Growing Your AAPI ERG

  • Host Inclusive Events: From Lunar New Year celebrations to career panels with AAPI leaders, events help increase visibility and draw in new members.
  • Promote Your ERG Internally: Use company newsletters, Slack channels, or internal portals to keep people informed and interested.
  • Welcome New Hires: Make sure every new employee knows your AAPI ERG exists—and that they’re welcome.
  • Collaborate with Other ERGs: Work with your Black, Latinx, LGBTQ+, or Women’s ERGs on intersectional events and initiatives that highlight shared experiences and mutual goals.

Keeping Your AAPI ERG Engaged

  • Hold Regular Meetings: Make time to check in, share updates, and keep the conversation going. Monthly or quarterly meetings work well.
  • Plan Team Activities: Try virtual cooking classes, storytelling circles, or film screenings to create fun and meaningful engagement.
  • Create a Volunteering Calendar: Give back as a team by partnering with AAPI nonprofits or organizing cultural outreach events. Volunteering together builds purpose and pride.
Also Read: How to grow and engage your AAPI ERG in this blog.

Common Challenges in Running an AAPI ERG (And How to Solve Them)

While AAPI ERGs bring immense value, building and sustaining them comes with real challenges. Every AAPI ERG faces challenges, but the most successful ones adapt and evolve with their members. These groups often start with strong intent, but without the right structure and support, maintaining momentum can become difficult over time. Recognizing these challenges early allows your AAPI group to stay resilient, relevant, and effective as it grows.

1. Low Participation at the Start

Many AAPI groups struggle to attract members in the early stages. Employees may be unsure of the purpose, hesitant to join, or simply unaware that the AAPI ERG exists.

Building initial momentum takes time. Starting with smaller, meaningful events such as informal meetups, storytelling sessions, or cultural discussions can help create a comfortable entry point. As awareness grows, consistent communication through internal channels and word of mouth can gradually increase visibility and participation.

When employees begin to see the value of the AAPI employee resource group through real experiences, participation tends to grow more organically.

2. Leadership Burnout

Running an AAPI employee resource group often depends on a small group of passionate individuals who take on multiple responsibilities. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, especially when balancing ERG commitments with full-time roles.

Creating a shared leadership structure helps distribute responsibilities more evenly. Defining clear roles, such as program leads, communications support, and event coordinators, allows more members to contribute. Rotating leadership periodically also allows others to step in, while preventing burnout among core members.

A sustainable AAPI ERG is one where leadership is shared, supported, and continuously evolving.

3. Lack of Executive Support

Without visible support from leadership, it can be challenging for AAPI ERGs to secure resources, gain recognition, or expand their impact. Employees may also perceive the group as informal rather than an integral part of the organization.

Having an executive sponsor who actively engages with the AAPI ERG can make a significant difference. This includes advocating for the group, attending key events, and helping align ERG initiatives with broader organizational goals. When leadership is involved, it reinforces the importance of AAPI groups and encourages wider participation.

Strong executive support often enables AAPI ERGs to move from small initiatives to more impactful, organization-wide programs.

4. Balancing Cultural and Professional Goals

Some AAPI groups find it difficult to strike the right balance between cultural celebrations and professional development. Focusing too heavily on one area can limit the ERG's overall impact.

A well-rounded AAPI employee resource group creates space for both. Cultural events such as heritage celebrations and storytelling sessions help build connection and awareness. At the same time, career-focused initiatives like mentorship programs, leadership panels, and skill-building workshops support growth and advancement.

Balancing these elements ensures that the AAPI ERG remains meaningful to members while also contributing to their long-term development.

5. Sustaining Long-Term Engagement

Maintaining engagement over time is one of the most common challenges. Initial enthusiasm can fade if activities feel repetitive or if members do not see ongoing value.

Keeping engagement strong requires continuous evolution. Gathering regular feedback, introducing new formats, and experimenting with different types of events can help keep the experience fresh and relevant. Collaboration with other employee groups or external organizations can also bring new perspectives and energy.

When AAPI groups consistently adapt to the needs and interests of their members, they are more likely to sustain participation and build long-term impact.

By addressing these challenges proactively, AAPI ERGs can build stronger foundations and grow into meaningful spaces that support employees while contributing to the broader workplace culture.

Wrapping Up

Creating and growing an AAPI employee resource group is about more than DEI checkboxes. It’s about building a workplace where Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander voices are celebrated, heard, and empowered to lead. Strong AAPI ERGs can transform workplace culture by creating spaces where employees feel connected, supported, and empowered to grow.
Reach out to Goodera, and we will help you plan and host engaging activities for your AAPI ERG. Together, let’s continue to create workplaces where every identity feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is An AAPI Employee Resource Group?

An AAPI employee resource group is an employee-led initiative that creates a supportive space for Asian American and Pacific Islander employees. It helps individuals connect, share experiences, and grow professionally while contributing to a more inclusive workplace culture.

2. Why Should Companies Start An AAPI ERG?

Companies start AAPI ERGs to support employees, improve engagement, and build stronger workplace cultures. These groups also help organizations gain cultural insights, attract diverse talent, and drive better business outcomes.

3. How Do You Start An AAPI Employee Resource Group At Work?

Starting an AAPI employee resource group begins with understanding employee needs, defining a clear mission, and securing leadership support. Building a core team and planning meaningful activities helps create a strong foundation for growth.

4. What Activities Can An AAPI ERG Organize?

An AAPI ERG can organize cultural celebrations, mentorship programs, leadership discussions, volunteering initiatives, and networking events. A mix of cultural and professional activities helps keep members engaged and involved.

5. How Do You Keep An AAPI ERG Engaged Over Time?

Keeping an AAPI ERG engaged requires consistent communication, diverse programming, and regular feedback from members. Introducing new ideas and collaborating with other groups can help maintain long-term interest and participation.

6. How Do You Measure The Success Of An AAPI ERG?

The success of an AAPI employee resource group can be measured through participation levels, employee feedback, engagement scores, and retention trends. Long-term impact on workplace culture and employee growth is also a key indicator.

7. What Challenges Do AAPI ERGs Face?

Common challenges include low initial participation, leadership burnout, limited executive support, and sustaining engagement over time. Addressing these early helps AAPI groups grow more effectively.

8. How Do AAPI ERGs Benefit Employees?

AAPI ERGs provide a sense of community, support professional development, and create opportunities for networking and mentorship. They also give employees a platform to share their voices and experiences.

9. How Do AAPI ERGs Benefit Organizations?

AAPI ERGs help organizations improve employee engagement, strengthen collaboration, and drive innovation. They also contribute to better talent retention and more informed decision-making.

10. Can Non-AAPI Employees Join An AAPI ERG?

Yes, most AAPI employee resource groups are open to allies. Encouraging participation from non-AAPI employees helps build understanding, collaboration, and a more inclusive workplace environment.