The GEN IMPACT Awards: Honoring ERGs That Drive Meaningful Change

Recognizing Leadership: The GEN IMPACT Awards

The Global ERG Network (GEN) recently celebrated the 2025 GEN IMPACT Award winners, underscoring a timely recognition of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and their role in reshaping workplace culture. With over 50 organizations in attendance at the annual GEN Conference held in Tucson, Arizona, this year's theme, 'The ERG & Council Evolution: From Advocacy to Impact,' encapsulated the transformative power of these groups.

According to Anna Ettin, Executive Officer of Innovation and Generational Transformation at Tapestry Partner Solutions, ERGs are engaging in more than just standard advocacy; they’re driving innovation, enhancing retention, and fostering connections that invigorate organizational culture. The recognition signifies a paradigm shift where ERGs are positioned not just as support systems but as integral contributors to business outcomes.

What Makes These ERGs Stand Out?

The winners were judged based on their ability to Innovate, Measure, Progress, Activate, Collaborate, and Transform (IMPACT). This framework emphasizes the multifaceted contributions of ERGs, moving beyond traditional roles to become catalysts for sustainable change within their organizations. Unlike previous years, the awards spotlight a diverse array of successful employee-driven initiatives focusing on measurable impacts, essential for companies aspiring for inclusivity.

The Future Awaits: Announcement of the 2026 Virtual Summit

As GEN looks ahead, the announcement of its 2026 Virtual Summit is particularly exciting. Rather than merely focusing on ERG leadership, the summit will provide professional development for all ERG members, positioning these groups as critical to cultivating future organizational leaders. Monica Brunache, Executive Officer of Organizational and Employee Strategy, emphasizes that 'the future of work belongs to those who see talent as a living system—not a hierarchy.'

It’s clear that enhancing workplace belonging and nurturing a growth-focused culture will be central themes at the summit. Attendees can look forward to practical tracks like 'Experience into Impact' and 'Leaders Are Grown, Not Hired,' aimed at deepening the connection between individual experiences and organizational success.

Enhancing Collective Insight for Business Transformation

The STRATEGY, a central part of organizations driven by ERGs, highlights the importance of collective insight. Participating in events like the GEN Conference and Virtual Summit equips members not only with knowledge but also with the connections necessary for thriving in complex business climates. The collective wisdom shared within these forums empowers leaders to face challenges and seize opportunities—transforming organizations into more resilient entities.

Why You Should Care About ERGs

For anyone invested in the future of organizational culture, understanding the function and impact of Employee Resource Groups is crucial. These groups, by fostering community and collaboration, can ignite significant change within their respective companies. The GEN IMPACT Awards and the upcoming summit galvanize the movement towards a more inclusive and equitable workplace, making it imperative for business leaders to embrace ERG initiatives seriously, not only for the sake of diversity but for tangible business success.

Looking Forward: An Invitation to Engage

Moving forward, organizations are encouraged to actively engage with ERGs and prioritize the insights and strategies discussed during the GEN gatherings. Cultivating a climate where employees feel empowered to lead from every position is not just beneficial—it’s essential for success in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

To explore these insights further, organizations are invited to participate in the upcoming 2026 GEN Virtual Summit—which promises to be an insightful journey into the next phase of ERGs and their strategic advantages.