Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Policy
At the Business Development Association (BDA), we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are global imperatives for the credibility and sustainability of business development as a profession. As the world’s leading authority in business development standards, certifications, and accreditations, BDA integrates DEI principles into every aspect of its operations from BDA Professional Certifications to Business Accreditations and from Memberships Programs to Advisory Solutions
This policy reflects our commitment to building a globally inclusive ecosystem where professionals and organizations, regardless of geography, culture, gender, or background, have equitable access to recognized standards, learning opportunities, and career advancement.
Non-Discrimination: We prohibit any form of bias or exclusion on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, age, language, disability, or socio-economic status.
Equitable Standards: All BDA certifications (BDA-CP™, BDA-SCP™) and exams are governed by standardized eligibility and assessment criteria to ensure fairness and transparency.
Inclusive Learning & Testing: Exams are offered in multiple languages, with accommodations for candidates requiring accessibility support.
Global Accessibility: Digital platforms, course materials, and events are designed to follow international accessibility standards to ensure equal participation.
Ethics & Integrity: DEI principles are embedded in the BDA Code of Conduct ensuring that professionals and partners uphold fairness and inclusivity in all engagements.
- Certifications & Exams: Clear, competency-based criteria aligned with the BDA BoCK™ Framework guarantee that achievement is measured solely on professional merit. Candidates with disabilities or special needs may request accommodations without any impact on assessment integrity.
- Accreditations & Partnerships: Every accredited partner must commit to DEI compliance. Regular reviews ensure training providers and institutions maintain inclusive practices in their delivery.
- Membership Programs: Individual and corporate memberships are structured to encourage broad participation, with transparent fee models and discounted access for non-profits, students, and emerging markets.
- Content & Knowledge Sharing: The Knowledge Center features global case studies, research, and publications that reflect multiple cultural and regional perspectives, ensuring diverse representation.
- Events & Webinars: International conferences, summits, and online sessions prioritize diverse speakers and ensure balanced representation of genders, industries, and geographies.
BDA leadership is committed to managing DEI within a framework of Leadership & Governce Compliance is monitored via:
- Annual audits of certification and accreditation processes.
- Transparent reporting of DEI KPIs, such as candidate demographics, accessibility requests processed, and partner compliance rates.
- A global complaint and review process linked to the Code of Conduct, allowing candidates, members, or partners to report DEI-related concerns, with impartial investigation and resolution.
