Understanding ERGs and BRGs
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Business Resource Groups (BRGs) were created in the 1960s and 1970s to serve as social spaces for employees with shared identities to come together to discuss issues and concerns. These groups were originally known as affinity groups and largely focused on women and Black employee populations. However, over the years, these groups evolved to become more aligned to company goals and strategies and to create spaces for belonging.
What’s the difference between an ERG and a BRG?
ERG
ERGs are closer to the 60s and 70s affinity-group models; employee-led groups that allow staff to voluntarily engage with colleagues on various topics of interest. ERGs support professional development, contribute to building a sense of belonging, and drive positive change within organizations.
BRG
BRGs are also voluntary, employee-led that support members in fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with organizational mission, values, goals, business practices, and objectives . However, BRGs have evolved and are now often created with clear business objectives, which helps the company recruit, retain, and even do business with a more diverse demographic. BRGs provide more business consultant services, such as providing insights for customer service, assisting with interviewing candidates and serving as focus groups for the testing and evaluation of products.
Although the terms ERG and BRG are frequently used interchangeably, ERGs focus on building community with affinity groups offering an informal interest and hobbies approach while BRGs represent the next stage in strengthening the connections to the business.
Data ERGs v. BRGs
Out of the 397 Fortune 500 companies with an Employee Resource Group program
214
(53.9%)
use the term Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to refer to their programs
66
companies (16.6%)
use the term Business Resource Groups (BRGs)
14
companies (3.5%)
identify their programs as Employee Networks.
9
(2.3%)
utilize the name Associate Resource Groups.
7
companies (1.8%)
refer to their programs as Affinity Groups out of 100 companies