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Childcare Costs, Reduced Work, and Financial Strain: New Estimates for Low-Income Families

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:27:45 +0000

Childcare Costs, Reduced Work, and Financial Strain: New Estimates for Low-Income Families

June 27, 2024

[email protected] Thu, 06/27/2024 - 10:27

According to new survey data from the Federal Reserve’s 2023 Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking (“SHED”), low-income families are more likely to reduce work to care for young children while high income families are more likely to pay for care.^[i] These differing decisions have financial consequences, as families who reduce work are less well off financially than those who are not reducing work. Although families who pay for care are better off overall, child care costs are still a notable expense. On average, families who pay for care pay about half as much for that care as for housing each month. This analysis suggests how government and private sector support for child care might vary by income

Families handle care responsibilities differently across income levels

As shown in Figure 1, families at different income levels make different decisions about how to care for their children. Households with young children and that make less than $75,000 per year are more likely to provide care themselves, with about 35 percent of these households reducing work to care for children. As income rises, the share of households using paid child care rises – from 17 percent for those making less than $24,000 to 41 percent for those making more than $150,000. The highest earners are unlikely to reduce work to care for children, without only about 14 percent of households doing so.

Families who reduce work to care for children are worse off financially

The data in the SHED cannot tell us whether these differences in care arrangements come out of preference or necessity. It may be that some parents choose not to work because of the cost of child care, especially for multiple children. Alternatively, it may be that some parents choose to not work or work fewer hours because they want to stay home with children despite lost income. However, the SHED does show that there are financial costs for families who reduce work to take care of children.

As shown in Table 1, households where parents have reduced work to care for children do less well on a range of financial measures, with less than half reporting they could cover an unexpected $400 expense with cash or that they are doing “at least okay” financially. Only 30 percent saved any money in the previous month. Meanwhile, parents who paid for care, as well as parents who did not pay for care or reduce work (likely those who used free public or family care), were more likely to be able to cover expenses, report doing well financially, or save money. Overall, only 64 percent of work-reducing households responded positively to any of the three measures, compared to 80 percent of those paying for care and 77 percent of those with free care.

Academic literature provides an additional clue in the preference-necessity debate. A body of work suggests access to affordable care increases parental labor supply, implying that there are parents who want to work but cannot due to lack of available or affordable care (Morrisey 2017). Together, academic evidence and the SHED suggest that helping families access affordable child care could increase the supply of workers and reduce negative financial consequences of paying for care.

Paid child care is a large financial cost for families

Although families who pay for care are on average wealthier and in better financial circumstances, care is a real financial burden for many of them. OUSEA analysis suggests that the median individual with a child under 13 who pays for child care spends $1,700 per month on their rent or mortgage and $867 on child care, meaning child care costs are 51 percent of monthly housing costs on average. Housing is the largest expense for the average American family. If child care is half as much, that makes it a large contributor to many family budgets.

Government and private sector support for high quality child care could increase financial well-being, labor supply, and economic growth.

This analysis shows that many low-income families reduce work when they have children at the cost of their financial well-being. Even for families who can pay for care, child care costs are often prohibitively expensive, costing half as much as housing per month.

Stronger government and private-sector support for care could alleviate these difficulties. Providing high-quality care is often not profitable, leaving almost three-quarters of families in areas where there is an under-supply of care. Some parents have no choice but to stay home and care for children, even at the cost of financial well-being. Many countries solve these issues with government investment, but government child care spending in the United States is one of the lowest in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

This investment is not only important for families, but also for businesses and the macroeconomy. On a business level, child care benefits help attract and retain top talent and decrease absenteeism among existing workers (Kos et al. 2024). On a macroeconomic level, reducing barriers for marginalized workers creates better allocation of talent, increasing productivity and economic growth (Hsieh et al. 2019; Buckman et al. 2021). The decision to use paid care depends on various factors not captured in survey data, such as parental preference, availability, and affordability. However, what we do know is that child care costs for American families remain high.

[i] The SHED is a naturally representative, convenience sample of 11,400 participants. The small sample, combined with a low response rate (4.1 percent) limit the scope and precision of this analysis.

Bureaus and Offices

Know the Signs of Heat Illness and Your Heat Risk

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:42:48 +0000

Know the Signs of Heat Illness and Your Heat Risk

June 21, 2024

[email protected] Fri, 06/21/2024 - 12:42

Weather and satellites

How much heat can a person safely endure? It depends.

Much less visible and dramatic than hurricanes, floods and tornadoes, heat is considered the silent killer, affecting the lives and health of people across the country. An average of 702 heat-related deaths occur each year in the United States, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Certain groups of people should be especially careful during hot weather conditions. For example, city-dwellers and those living in the upper floors of tall buildings or in heat-prone regions are most at-risk for heat-related illness. People who have difficulty getting around or who have health conditions are particularly susceptible. The elderly and the very young also merit special attention during periods of high heat and humidity.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have also partnered to increase awareness for outdoor workers and their employers during excessive heat events. As part of this effort, NWS incorporates specific outdoor worker safety precautions when heat advisories and warnings are issued.

No matter what your job is or how you spend your free time, prevention of heat-related illness is key.

Here's what you can do:

Be informed and stay alert

Pay close attention to heat advisories or warnings that have been issued for your community.

NWS continually updates heat-related advisories and warnings online at weather.gov. (Click on “Excessive Heat Warning” and “Heat Advisory” under the U.S. map — if there are no current warnings or advisories in the United States, nothing will appear).
NOAA issues excessive heat warnings when weather conditions pose an imminent threat to life and heat advisories when weather conditions are expected to cause significant discomfort or inconvenience or — if caution is not taken — become life threatening.
If you do not have internet access, you can get heat advisory and warning information by watching your local television or radio newscast or by purchasing a NOAA weather radio and tuning into NOAA Weather Radio All-Hazards.
Use the temperature and humidity to figure out the heat index for your area, a measure that tells us how hot it feels.

Click here for more information on planning for periods of extreme heat, knowing what to do and not to do in extreme heat, and knowing the warning signs of heat-related illness.

Be prepared: Visit heat.gov today for comprehensive information on where heat is likely to hit and how to stay healthy during extreme heat.

To see your heat risk, go to the National Weather Service’s experimental HeatRisk tool, a color-numeric-based index that provides a forecast risk of heat-related impacts to occur over a 24-hour period. HeatRisk takes into consideration:

How unusual the heat is for the time of the year
The duration of the heat including both daytime and nighttime temperatures
If those temperatures pose an elevated risk of heat-related impacts based on data from the CDC

This index is supplementary to official NWS heat products and is meant to provide risk guidance for those decision makers and heat-sensitive populations who need to take actions at levels that may be below current NWS heat product levels.

Data is critical to providing information on how climate change affects Americans nationwide. Read more in the Commerce blog: The Importance of Data in Combatting Extreme Heat and Climate Change.

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

National Weather Service

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Climate Change

Commerce's USPTO Announces National Strategy to Empower Innovators and Entrepreneurs from All Communities

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:19:10 +0000

Commerce's USPTO Announces National Strategy to Empower Innovators and Entrepreneurs from All Communities

June 21, 2024

[email protected] Fri, 06/21/2024 - 12:19

Intellectual property

New plan to increase diversity and participation in STEM, inventorship, and innovation

The Commerce Department’s U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently announced a new National Strategy for Inclusive Innovation to connect more Americans with resources to spur innovation and entrepreneurship. In conjunction with the agency’s work with the Council for Inclusive Innovation (CI²), the Strategy aims to grow the economy, create quality jobs, and address global challenges by increasing participation in STEM, inventorship, and innovation among youth and those from historically underrepresented and underresourced communities.

The protection of intellectual property (IP), including patents and trademarks, has been at the forefront of advancement in science and technology. However, opportunities to participate in the U.S. innovation system have been historically unequal. Our most recent Progress and Potential report found that while more women are entering and staying active in the patent system, only 12.8% of all inventors named on U.S. patents are women. At the same time, a Harvard University study revealed that white Americans are three times more likely to invent than Black Americans, and that children born to parents in the top 1% of income earners are 10 times more likely to become inventors than those from families with below-median income.

In the continued effort to advance the mission of inclusive innovation, the USPTO has outlined a comprehensive strategic approach for the federal government, academic institutions, and private industry to share and implement best practices that inspire and support a diverse population of problem-solvers.

“Opportunities for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone, especially those who have historically lacked access to our most valuable support systems and resources,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “USPTO’s National Strategy for Inclusive Innovation outlines a pathway to success for inventors from all backgrounds. This is a reminder that America’s diversity is our greatest strength, but only if everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their potential. By empowering innovators and entrepreneurs from all communities, we can help ensure America’s global competitiveness for decades to come.”

“In order to fulfill our nation’s innovative promise, every sector of the innovation ecosystem—industry, associations, governments, and schools—must take tangible steps to ensure that all Americans can fully realize their inventive and entrepreneurial potential,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO Kathi Vidal. “This Strategy provides a call to action and roadmap to achieve innovative success. When we all work together with a common objective, we can do big things for each other and the country.”

The Strategy is built upon four Cornerstones, each of which is critical to maximizing American prosperity. The Cornerstones include:

Addressing K-12 educational disparities and the need to inspire youth of all backgrounds to become innovators
Focusing on post-secondary educational disparities for students and faculty
Promoting inclusiveness in organizations
Increasing, for all Americans, commercialization opportunities for innovations

The Strategy complements the National Entrepreneurship Strategy recently released by the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NACIE), on which Director Vidal sits as a co-chair, that includes recommendations for how the U.S. Department of Commerce, the federal government, and the private sector can foster an entrepreneurship ecosystem that ensures the United States leads in critical technology innovation.

Director Vidal discussed the new Strategy at a recent event celebrating World IP Day on Capitol Hill that also featured members of Congress and representatives from the U.S. Copyright Office and IP organizations.

The USPTO’s 2019 Report to Congress as part of the SUCCESS Act of 2018 required the agency to identify publicly available data on the patenting activity of underrepresented groups and the benefits of increasing this activity. As part of that report, the USPTO pledged to create a council for innovation inclusiveness consisting of representatives from the general public, private corporations, academia, nonprofit organizations, and the U.S. government. This council would help develop a national strategy for promoting and increasing the participation of underrepresented groups as inventor-patentees, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders.

Since then, the USPTO formed the Council for Inclusive Innovation, or CI². In connection with its collaboration with CI², the USPTO has launched key initiatives such as a First-Time Filer Expedited Examination Program that offers extra support for inventors new to the patent system; an IP Champions program that leverages our nationwide workforce to provide IP assistance and training within their communities; a diversity information platform that provides data-driven analyses and a one-stop shop for discussing and sharing best practices; the expansion of our nationwide pro bono programs providing free legal assistance to underresourced inventors; and a paid innovation internship program for college students from underrepresented communities, among other initiatives. With today’s launch of the National Strategy for Inclusive Innovation, USPTO is taking an important step towards greater equity in inventorship and will continue to advance the key tenets underpinning the Strategy through its goal of fostering more inclusive innovation throughout America.

To further this goal, the USPTO recently updated its website to indicate more locations where patenting and trademark registration assistance can be found. These locations include our five Regional Offices and more than 90 Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs). PTRCs are a USPTO-designated network of libraries where visitors can learn more about filing applications for patents and trademarks and get their questions answered. To find a PTRC or a Regional Office near you and learn more about services offered, visit USPTO’s new Locations page on the USPTO website.

About USPTO

The USPTO is the federal agency for granting U.S. patents and registering trademarks. The strength and vitality of the U.S. economy depends directly on effective mechanisms that protect new ideas and investments in innovation and creativity. The USPTO advises the President of the United States, the Secretary of Commerce, and U.S. government agencies on intellectual property (IP) policy, protection, and enforcement; and promotes the stronger and more effective IP protection around the world. More information is available at uspto.gov/about-us.

About the Council for Inclusive Innovation (CI²)

CI² was born out of the USPTO’s 2018 SUCCESS Act report transmitted to Congress in 2019, which found that women and minorities are underrepresented as inventors and as patentees named on U.S.-granted patents. Based on the report findings the USPTO launched a high-level council of industry, academic, professional, and government leaders tasked with helping support a national strategy for increased participation of underrepresented groups in innovation—as inventors, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders. CI² is charged with strategizing new ways to expand American innovation by increasing the opportunities for all Americans to participate in innovation. More information is available at Council for Inclusive Innovation (CI2) | USPTO.

Bureaus and Offices

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

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Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)

Entrepreneurship

Innovation

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math [STEM]

U.S. Department of Commerce Releases Updated Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:54:21 +0000

U.S. Department of Commerce Releases Updated Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan

June 21, 2024

[email protected] Fri, 06/21/2024 - 09:54

Environmental data

ICT Supply Chain

Biden-Harris Administration expands agency efforts to ensure operations are increasingly resilient to climate change impacts

Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce joined more than 20 federal agencies to release its updated Climate Adaptation Plan and expand the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to ensure federal operations are increasingly resilient to climate change impacts. The updated adaptation plans advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s National Climate Resilience Framework, which helps to align climate resilience investments across the public and private sector through common principles and opportunities for action to build a climate resilient nation.

Communities from coast to coast are experiencing the impacts of climate change firsthand through extreme heat causing difficult to contain wildfires and flooding. In light of these impacts, the Biden-Harris Administration is taking action to assess, manage, and reduce the risks that climate change poses to the nation. To address the climate change hazards and related impacts affecting the Department of Commerce’s employees, facilities, and lands and waters, the Department is establishing protocols to ensure a climate-ready workforce resilient facilities, lands and waters, climate-resilient supply chains, operational climate data and tools for decision-making, and climate resilience into external funding opportunities.

“The Commerce Department is prepared to leverage all of its bureaus, and our dedicated workforce, to ensure this administration and communities across the nation have the data, tools, and resources they need to mitigate the impacts of climate change while building a better, more resilient, America.” – Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo

At the beginning of his Administration, President Biden tasked federal agencies with leading whole-of-government efforts to address climate change through Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. Following the magnitude of challenges posed by the climate crisis underscored last year when the nation endured a record 28 individual billion-dollar extreme weather and climate disasters that caused more than $90 billion in aggregate damage, the Department of Commerce continues to be a leader and partner in adaptation and resilience.

The Department of Commerce released its initial Climate Adaptation Plan in 2021 and progress reports outlining advancements toward achieving their adaptation goals in 2022. In coordination with the White House Council on Environmental Quality and the Office of Management and Budget, agencies updated their Climate Adaptation Plans for 2024 to 2027 to better integrate climate risk across their mission, operations, and asset management, including:

Combining historical data and projections to assess exposure of assets to climate-related hazards including extreme heat and precipitation, sea level rise, flooding, and wildfire;
Expanding the operational focus on managing climate risk to facilities and supply chains to include federal employees and federal lands and waters;
Broadening the mission focus to describe mainstreaming adaptation into agency policies, programs, planning, budget formulation, and external funding;
Linking climate adaptation actions with other Biden-Harris Administration priorities, including advancing environmental justice and the President’s Justice40 Initiative, strengthening engagement with Tribal Nations, supporting the America the Beautiful initiative, scaling up nature-based solutions, and addressing the causes of climate change through climate mitigation; and
Adopting common progress indicators across agencies to assess the progress of agency climate adaptation efforts.

All plans from each of the 20+ agencies and more information are available at www.sustainability.gov/adaptation.

Please also see the White House Fact Sheet: Biden-Harris Administration Releases Agency Climate Adaptation Plans, Demonstrates Leadership in Building Climate Resilience.

Bureaus and Offices

Office of Facilities and Environmental Quality

Leadership

Investing in communities and workers

Tags

Climate Change

Commerce Honors Juneteenth

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 19:27:32 +0000

Commerce Honors Juneteenth

June 18, 2024

[email protected] Tue, 06/18/2024 - 15:27

Juneteenth is not just a federal holiday but is an observance of the perseverance and determination of African Americans throughout our Nation’s history. Early in his Presidency, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law commemorating June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed of their emancipation. Juneteenth became the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was adopted in 1983.

Juneteenth serves as a reminder to all Americans of the history and progress made by African Americans and their empowerment today. In recognition of the Juneteenth holiday, the Juneteenth flag will fly over the Commerce Department this week.

The Biden Administration and the Commerce Department are committed to equality and diversity and creating an economy that works for all Americans.

For more information, please see the White House Fact Sheet: Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Actions to Protect and Preserve Our Nation’s African American History Ahead of Juneteenth National Independence Day.

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juneteenth

A Week in the Life of A New OGC Employee

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:54:24 +0000

A Week in the Life of A New OGC Employee

June 10, 2024

[email protected] Mon, 06/10/2024 - 06:54

As told to and adapted for the OGC blog by [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">Cathy Andrade, Chief of Staff to the Deputy General Counsel for Administration

Monday

7:42AM: Log on for virtual New Employee Orientation. Spill coffee on shirt. Turn camera off. Get new shirt.

7:45AM: Turn camera back on. Shush my barking dog, who wants to go outside.

8:00AM: Human Resources virtually swears us in as new employees.

8:05AM: Begin orientation on Commerce and all other aspects of federal employment. Much of this isn’t new as a transferring federal employee, but it must be a whirlwind of information for a new Fed. I wish I could tell them they will all be speaking in acronyms in no time.

12noon: Orientation concludes. Prepare for a call with my new supervisor after lunch.

12:30PM: Call with supervisor. He’s looking forward to seeing me in the office tomorrow.

Tuesday

7:30AM: Take kids to school. Turn around and go home because we realized we forgot to dress for Spirt Day.

7:45AM: Drop of kids at school (take 2). En route to the Herbert C. Hoover Building.

8:15AM: Arrive at HCHB. It’s bigger than I remember and its right next to the White House grounds.

8:30AM: Appointment to get my new ID badge. The security folks are kind enough to let me take a few pics before I decide on the one I like.

8:45AM: Meet my IT colleagues who help me with my IT equipment.

9:00AM: I log on for the first time, check my email, and see a message has gone out to the office welcoming me to my new position.

10:00AM: Fill out employment forms.

11:00AM: …still filling out employment forms.

12noon: …almost done with the employment forms.

12:30PM: Check out lunch options around the neighborhood. Great part of town. Lots of tourists milling around. POTUS’ motorcade drives by. Never get tired of seeing that.

4:30PM: The afternoon has gone by quickly with meeting new colleagues, introductory meetings, and more forms.

Wednesday

7:30AM: Nailed school drop off this morning. Deserve a McDonalds hash brown on my way in. #winning

8:00AM: Arrive at work. I find my office easily, which is an accomplishment given how big HCHB is.

12noon: Another busy morning with lots of new learning. Lunch today with my new team.

12:30PM: One of the upshots of being next to the White House means getting to see Marine One land.

4:30PM: Wrapping up another great day. Can’t wait to tell the family about it when I get home.

Thursday

7:30AM: Drop kids at school. Realize we forgot lunches at home. Gave kids money to buy lunch. Now they are #winning.

8:00AM: Arrive at work.

9:00AM: Meet new colleague for coffee. Realize I gave my kids all my cash. Thank goodness the cafe takes plastic.

12noon: Lunch and learn session at the Commerce Research Library. Super-informative.

4:30PM: Office held its semi-regular happy hour this afternoon. Great opportunity to meet new colleagues.

Friday

7:45AM: I’m teleworking today, so I logon after dropping the kids off at school.

8:30AM: I need to log my time and attendance, but I’ve already forgotten the procedure. Thank goodness for the kind administrative assistants who can help with my first time through this process.

4:30PM: I can’t believe how quickly the day went by. Already looking forward to next week!

****

If you are interested in learning more about careers at OGC, check out the Office of the General Counsel, review employment opportunities, or [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">submit a resume.

Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Hosts Commerce’s First National Latino Advocacy Summit

Thu, 30 May 2024 20:07:35 +0000

Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Hosts Commerce’s First National Latino Advocacy Summit

May 30, 2024

[email protected] Thu, 05/30/2024 - 16:07

National Latino Advocacy Summit Keynote Remarks Senator Padilla, Secretary Raimondo, and Deputy Secretary Graves

Earlier this month, the Department of Commerce Office of Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships, in partnership with Hispanic Access, hosted the National Latino Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. This summit was a significant step towards empowering the Latino community and building their capacity to advocate for themselves, their families, and their community. Secretary Raimondo, Deputy Secretary Graves, and Senator Padilla led the summit with keynote remarks, followed by remarks from David Armijo, Chief of Programs, Hispanic Access.

These principals emphasized President Biden's commitment to celebrate, empower and uplift the Latino communities nationwide. They provided an overview of the resources and opportunities disseminated from our bureaus and national partnerships and highlighted the range of programs being supported by the Biden-Harris Administration. In addition, they expressed their appreciation for the incredible ways Commerce has and continues to enrich the Latino communities and support businesses that are essential to America's ability to compete and win in the global economy.

Speakers also emphasized the important role the Latino community has in the U.S. economy and urged the business and organization leaders to continue engaging at the state and federal level to streamline access to resources supported by President Biden's Investing in America agenda which is unlocking new pathways to economic growth, entrepreneurship, and job creation.

The Bipartisan Panel included Congresswoman Lori Chavez-Deremer, Congressmen Darren Soto and Adriano Espaillat, and Representative Angela Romero, who shared success stories from the partnerships with the Latino community on various efforts. For instance, they highlighted how they trail-blazed to where they are today by advocating for increased representation and resources for the Latino community. They also discussed critical topics regarding economic equity in unrepresented and under-served communities in their respective locations.

National Latino Advocacy Summit Panel Discussion

During our Interagency panel, we heard from representatives from the White House, Department of Education (ED), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Economic Development Administration (EDA), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and CHIPS for America who provided a range of resources and funding opportunities that support everything from workforce development & technical assistance to data analysis techniques for climate resilience & business innovation. Each shared how they partner with the Latino community, specifically in these efforts.

Our four breakout sessions provided in-depth examples of the accomplishments of leaders in the Latino community who continue to serve and advance their respective initiatives to improve the quality of life. A critical topic addressed in the discussion was unrepresented and under-served communities related to access to capital and digital equity.

In the sessions, there were various community and business leaders as well as Bureau leaders from the U.S. Census Bureau, EDA, CHIPS for America, International Trade Administration (ITA), Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), NOAA, NTIA, and U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) who discussed workforce development, business and entrepreneurship, data, innovation, climate resilience, and financial literacy. The summit also included faith leaders who discussed key issues, from their top challenges and opportunities to ways they can partner more effectively with non-faith groups to achieve common goals.

Portions of the summit are available via recorded live stream.

Learn more about the Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.

Bureaus and Offices

Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships

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Equity

Military Appreciation Month: Commerce’s USPTO Offers Intellectual Property and Entrepreneurship Resources for the Military Community

Wed, 29 May 2024 16:02:04 +0000

Military Appreciation Month: Commerce’s USPTO Offers Intellectual Property and Entrepreneurship Resources for the Military Community

May 29, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 05/29/2024 - 12:02

Intellectual property

Did you know U.S. veteran-owned businesses generate $1 trillion annually, employing 3.6 million people? As part of President Biden’s commitment to veterans, military families, and caregivers, the Commerce Department’s U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is at the forefront of providing intellectual property (IP) and entrepreneurship guidance to service members on active duty, military spouses, National Guardsmen, Reservists, veterans, and military family members around the world.

USPTO Director Kathi Vidal (far right) at a From Service to Success event in March 2023 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. (Photo by Michael Cleveland/USPTO)

The From Service to Success program is a multifaceted initiative that has rapidly expanded since it was launched in 2022 by Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property (IP) and USPTO Director Kathi Vidal. It’s a hallmark of an agency-wide effort to introduce more Americans to IP and entrepreneurship to the military community. As part of a national roadshow, the USPTO has held ten military-connected events over the past 18 months, attracting hundreds of participants virtually and in person.

From Service to Success demonstrates how IP and entrepreneurship go hand in hand, especially for members of the larger global military community who all are:

A highly trained, educated, and motivated group with a track record of being productive and self-driven.
Live across the world – perfect for pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors that can be done virtually anywhere.
Set their hours around other obligations.
Have unique ideas worthy of protecting.

From Service to Success recognizes the unique skills of these Americans and the challenges of deployments and other changes in their work and personal lives. Participants report benefiting from the program and frequently utilizing its resources.

Responding to a post about a recent event, one military entrepreneur wrote that what she learned “was great to know because I need to start the trademark process, and I am clueless.” Another wrote that she “had no idea that the USPTO offers resources that can assist the military. So helpful.”

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo (center) with two Air Force members at a USPTO Entrepreneurship Essentials event in July at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts. (Photo by Todd Maki/Hanscom AFB)

Speaking on April 22 at the USPTO’s Military Entrepreneurship Summit in Alexandria, Virginia, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told participants, “Military families face additional obstacles to starting businesses, and the Commerce Department and Biden Administration are here to help you succeed.”

Earlier this month at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, an Army veteran and business owner said he wished this valuable USPTO program had been around when he started his business.

Entrepreneurship Essentials Roadshows are part of the From Service to Success program and reflect the USPTO’s mission of inclusive innovation, meeting potential entrepreneurs and small business owners where they are with targeted programming. Roadshows visit military bases worldwide and help by:

Providing encouragement from military leadership.
Sharing tips from experts on obtaining funding, identifying markets, writing and executing business plans, and hearing from other entrepreneurs.
Offering practical information to protect valuable innovations.
Networking with other entrepreneurs.

These roadshows reflect an all-of-government approach to foster and grow entrepreneurship in the military community, supporting President Biden’s executive order on advancing economic security for military and veteran families, caregivers, and survivors. Additionally, they leverage the resources provided by other Commerce agencies including the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), as well as those of the Department of Defense and Small Business Administration (SBA). Wherever you live, there’s a location to get IP and entrepreneurship guidance near you.

See the USPTO’s recently launched resources map for 100 locations across the country that provide inventors, entrepreneurs, and small businesses a USPTO presence in every U.S. time. In addition, see additional Commerce Department resources for the military community, SBA Veterans Business Outreach Centers, and MBDA Business Centers for further assistance. To learn about how you can utilize these military-connected resources, visit From Service to Success’ webpage or [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">email the USPTO.

Bureaus and Offices

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Tags

Entrepreneurship

Military Appreciation Month

Veterans

Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves Reiterate Biden Administration Commitment to Equity and the Success of AA and NHPI Businesses and Communities

Tue, 21 May 2024 20:37:16 +0000

Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves Reiterate Biden Administration Commitment to Equity and the Success of AA and NHPI Businesses and Communities

May 21, 2024

[email protected] Tue, 05/21/2024 - 16:37

Minority business growth

Last week, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Don Graves provided opening remarks at the Minority Business Development Agency’s (MBDA) second annual AANHPI Business Summit. They reaffirmed the Biden Administration’s commitment to an equitable and prosperous future for Asian American (AA), Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (NHPI) workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses. The Biden Administration has disbursed over $22 billion in small business loans to AA and NHPI entrepreneurs and achieved the highest Asian American employment and entrepreneurship rates in over a decade.

“The AA and NHPI community are a vital part of America’s ability to compete in the 21st century global economy,” said Raimondo. “At the Commerce Department, we’re working to ensure that all business owners, entrepreneurs, and innovators — regardless of their background or ethnicity — have the support they need to dream, create, and grow.”

Through the Capital Readiness Program, Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is working to ensure more underserved entrepreneurs have access to the capital, mentors, and networks they need to launch and scale their businesses. To date, seven of the program’s awardees have developed clear plans to reach AA and NHPI businesses and communities as part of their strategy to serve underserved entrepreneurs.

Last year, MBDA helped AA and NHPI-owned businesses secure over $642 million in capital and contracts, including $472 million for Asian American-owned businesses, $77 million for Indian American-owned businesses, and $92 million for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander-owned businesses.

“America’s road to prosperity runs through our minority business community,” said Deputy Secretary Graves. “Together, we can support and uplift AA and NHPI workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses and secure an equitable and prosperous future for all Americans.”

In conjunction with Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, the summit was held at the Commerce Department’s auditorium. Last year, Deputy Secretary Graves announced the auditorium would be named in honor of Norman Mineta, the first Asian American to hold a cabinet position, serving at the Commerce Department and Department of Transportation. During his remarks, Graves unveiled images of plaques that will go on the walls and pay homage to Secretary Mineta’s significant contributions to the Commerce Department, to the Asian American community, and to the Nation.

“Secretary Mineta recognized that America’s diversity is its source of strength,” said Graves. “During his time at the Commerce Department, he worked hard to ensure that all Americans, regardless of race or national origin, could participate in our economy and share in our prosperity.”

Panel discussions were held on access to capital, opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI), and navigating the contracting process. Before closing, Secretary Raimondo asked panel participants to discuss the challenges AA and NHPI businesses face and how the Commerce Department can provide the resources and knowledge needed to succeed.

“It is more important than ever that we double down on our efforts on equity, and we need to hear from you,” said Raimondo. “You know the needs of AA and NHPI businesses better than anyone, and we need you at the table – working with us in the federal government, and your state and local governments, community organizations, and schools.”

The Biden Administration and the Commerce Department are committed to equality and diversity and creating a workplace and an economy that works for all Americans. For more information, see President Biden’s Proclamation to the Nation honoring the history and achievements of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) communities.

Bureaus and Offices

Minority Business Development Agency

Leadership

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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Department of Commerce Ranks in Top 5 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government

Mon, 20 May 2024 13:52:39 +0000

Department of Commerce Ranks in Top 5 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government

May 20, 2024

[email protected] Mon, 05/20/2024 - 09:52

U.S. Department of Commerce building.

The Department of Commerce ranked in Top 5 in the 2023 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government Amongst Large Agencies for the 12th year in a row!

The Partnership for Public Service and Boston Consulting Group joined the Washington Post to release rankings for the 2023 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government. It is our honor to announce that the Department of Commerce was ranked the 4th Best Place to Work in the Federal Government!

Understanding the Ranking Process: The 2023 rankings are based on feedback collected through the 2023 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS). This survey tracks levels of employee satisfaction, such as how likely employees are to recommend their organization as a good place to work. The insights from these metrics and others collected from the FEVS illustrate Commerce’s outstanding achievements and opportunities across the federal government.

Impact on Department: The Department’s high ranking is because of the hard work and commitment each of you brings to your bureaus and offices each day. Your dedication to our shared mission strengthens our culture of excellence, growth, and innovation as we seek solutions to emerging challenges facing our country and world. Our ranking aligns with the positive trends we observed in the 2023 FEVS, showcasing our continued commitment to increasing our employee engagement, employee satisfaction, and positive perceptions towards diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion at the Department.

Transparent and honest feedback collected from each of you on key priorities is integral to leadership’s capacity to engage in informed decision-making across the Department. Your feedback highlights both areas to strengthen through continued investments and areas already performing at high levels. FEVS results influence several actions across the Department, which can be viewed at any time on the Department’s FEVS website.

What’s Next: This year, the Department saw a remarkable 10 percentage point increase in FEVS participation from 2022 among Department employees. We encourage you to continue to provide feedback by participating in the upcoming 2024 FEVS, launching this week. We look forward to hearing from you again as we aim to maintain the Department’s consistently high ranking as one of the best places to work in the federal government.

Thank you all for your commitment and congratulations on another great year of work!

Leadership

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Export and investment promotion

Secretary of Commerce, and Undersecretary of Everything Else

Mon, 20 May 2024 12:56:52 +0000

Secretary of Commerce, and Undersecretary of Everything Else

May 20, 2024

[email protected] Mon, 05/20/2024 - 08:56

Hoover seated at his desk, which now lives in the Commerce Research Library.

Whether your interest is in the effects of shipping routes on marine ecosystems, advancements in fire-fighting technology, or ensuring fair trade laws, the Office of the General Counsel provides opportunities for your passions to impact policies.

Taking Commerce from a sleepy backwater to economic efficiency

In 1921 the Commerce Department was a small, sleepy agency without political influence that did little more than oversee the country’s fisheries and lighthouses. Herbert Hoover hesitated when President-Elect Warren G. Harding offered to make him Secretary of Commerce. Friends advised Hoover to turn the new position down and the outgoing secretary later informed Hoover that he could do the job in as little as two hours per day.

Hoover nevertheless accepted the position when Harding gave him clearance to reorganize the department and expand its role in promoting American commerce. Under Hoover’s leadership, the Commerce Department grew and flourished, as did its secretary’s reputation. Soon known as the “Secretary of Commerce, and Undersecretary of Everything Else,” Hoover’s diligence and determination transformed the Commerce Department into one of the most powerful agencies in the federal government.

Something for everyone

Hoover reorganized and strengthened the various bureaus that fell under the Commerce Department’s purview and brought new ones into the fold. In 1925, the Patent Office was transferred to the Commerce Department, giving the agency more comprehensive administration of American economic activities.

In 1926, Hoover organized an Aeronautics Branch that worked to triple the number of lighted runways in the country, furnishing them with reliable weather and navigational equipment. These efforts made air travel a viable option for increasing numbers of Americans and American businesses looking to ship their products.

The Bureau of Standards (now NIST) was transformed it into one of the largest and most advanced scientific laboratories in the world. Its researchers studied everything from ceramics to optics and electricity, all while ensuring “a yard is a yard and a pound is a pound”.

Hoover spearheaded efforts to improve radio technology and regulate the airwaves. He saw the radio not merely as a form of entertainment or communication, but as an essential public utility. It was one of the ways, Hoover believed, that the department had a direct impact on the lives of the people it served.

Learn more about Commerce and OGC

The energetic secretary championed dozens of initiatives throughout his seven-year tenure, leaving a permanent mark on the Commerce Department. Today, the Department maintains its mission to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities, with the Office of the General Counsel continuing to provide legal services across the diverse operating units.

Learn more about the Office of the General Counsel, review employment opportunities, or [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">submit a resume.

Authored by Laura Swift, MLS, [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">Commerce Research Library, Office of the General Counsel

Commerce Secretary Raimondo Applauds Kenya as a Leader in Africa’s Digital Transformation

Wed, 15 May 2024 13:57:54 +0000

Commerce Secretary Raimondo Applauds Kenya as a Leader in Africa’s Digital Transformation

May 15, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 05/15/2024 - 09:57

Artificial Intelligence

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo recently led members of the President’s Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa (PAC-DBIA) to Nairobi, where she announced various commercial deals with U.S. companies and a historic partnership with Kenya to facilitate data flows, empower digital upskilling, and harness the potential of AI. The partnership is the first-of-its-kind with an African nation that builds on the U.S. collaboration with partners and allies to promote the safe and responsible development and deployment of AI.

“The Biden Administration is all in on Africa,” said Raimondo. “I chose Kenya as my first official trip to Africa because of their leadership in the digital transformation and to demonstrate the U.S. business community’s commitment to commercial opportunities in Kenya and across the continent.”

Secretary Raimondo echoed this sentiment during a meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto, where she applauded his efforts in making Kenya Africa’s digital hub. The two also discussed opportunities to increase U.S.-Kenya collaboration on digital policy and greater alignment on approaches to artificial intelligence.

Secretary Raimondo also joined the AmCham Business Summit: U.S.-East Africa Trade & Investment Forum where she and Minister Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy for Kenya, issued a joint statement on strengthening the digital economy, promoting innovation, and increasing digital trade and investment between the United States and Kenya. During the summit, Secretary Raimondo also announced private sector commitments and public-private partnerships on expanding access to critical internet infrastructure for communities in Nairobi, throughout Kenya, and across the African continent.

Secretary Raimondo also announced two Department of Commerce initiatives; a collaboration with African partners on data protection, and an African Women Digital Leaders Training program. The latter program will bring the next generation of women tech leaders in Africa to Washington, D.C., and Silicon Valley for training, networking, and mentorship with the U.S. tech sector.

During her visit, Secretary Raimondo met Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade and Industry Rebecca Miano, and discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral commercial ties across various sectors, including the green energy and clean technology sectors, of which Kenya is a continental leader. She also met with additional trade and digital ministers from across Africa and discussed ways to foster an inclusive, equitable, ethical, and sustainable digital future for both the U.S. and the global community.

The Secretary’s trip builds on the Department of Commerce-wide Africa strategy announced by Deputy Secretary Graves last fall at the AGOA forum in South Africa and served as a foundation for a shared commitment to strengthen the U.S.-Kenya commercial and investment relationship as the U.S. prepares for President Ruto’s State visit to the United States this month.

Bureaus and Offices

International Trade Administration

Leadership

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Artificial Intelligence

Doing Business in Africa

U.S. African Business Forum

National Hurricane Preparedness Week

Wed, 08 May 2024 14:20:57 +0000

National Hurricane Preparedness Week

May 8, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 05/08/2024 - 10:20

Weather and satellites

As hurricane season approaches, taking action is essential to better prepare for the worst. Begin pre-season preparations today to understand your risk from hurricanes. Ensure you know how to interpret forecasts and alerts and what to do before, during, and after a storm. Even if you are already well-prepared and knowledgeable, there may be additional things you could do or learn to be even more prepared.

Many families have experienced the devastation caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, and typhoons. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we raise awareness about the dangerous impacts of hurricanes and share best practices for preparing and staying safe. We also express our gratitude to the first responders, volunteers, and all those who help to organize communities and rescue, recover, and rebuild in the wake of these disasters.

This week, every American can take steps to plan, prepare, and better protect their families and homes. Review your emergency plans and insurance policies and ensure they are current. Store important documents in a secure, easily accessible place, learn local evacuation routes, and prepare an emergency kit. If a storm approaches, keep a close eye on storm surge and hurricane warnings and follow guidance from local authorities. Spreading awareness about hurricane preparedness can make a huge difference in keeping friends, families, and neighbors safe. For more information, visit ready.gov for tips on how to protect yourself from all hazards.

Bureaus and Offices

National Weather Service

Kommerce Kickers Make the Playoffs!

Wed, 01 May 2024 18:48:07 +0000

Kommerce Kickers Make the Playoffs!

April 24, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 05/01/2024 - 14:48

Pictured from L to R: (front) Leslie Lewis, Hannah Miller, Ayat Mujais, Jocelyn Steiner, Danny Cossey; (back) David Hogan, Alex Fried, Kenneth W. (non-DOC), Ruslan Klafehn; Jake C. (non-DOC); Other team members not pictured include: Natalie Burg, Somer Stapleton, Heather Holman, and Jana Patterson.

OGC was proud to field a strong team for the 2024 Volo Kickball league. The Kommerce Kickers made a terrific showing this year, going all the way to the playoffs before being taken out by a regular season loss to FDA’s Rompin’ Regulators and a playoff loss to the Black Bandits. There are no hard feelings, of course (well…).

Learn more about Commerce and OGC

Social sports leagues on the mall have existed as long as I can remember (I played with my law firm’s softball team on the Ellipse back in 2005!). Playing just across the street from Commerce’s Herbert C. Hoover Building on the National Mall during the height of spring is one of the many reasons working at Commerce is one of the best gigs in the city. Learn more about the Office of the General Counsel, review employment opportunities, or [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">submit a resume.

Authored by [email protected]" rel="noreferrer">Jocelyn Steiner, Commercial Law Development Program

U.S. Department of Commerce Celebrates World Trade Month 2024

Wed, 01 May 2024 16:12:29 +0000

U.S. Department of Commerce Celebrates World Trade Month 2024

May 1, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:12

Export and investment promotion

ICT Supply Chain

Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo celebrated World Trade Month by reaffirming the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and inclusive economy through international trade.

“International trade is essential to our nation’s economic growth and helps Americans build more resilient businesses and communities,” said Secretary Raimondo. “Throughout World Trade Month, the Commerce Department will celebrate and reaffirm the Biden-Harris Administration’s enduring commitment to deepening our economic cooperation with allies, bolstering supply chain resilience, ensuring a level playing field for American workers and businesses, and attracting foreign direct investment that creates good-paying jobs in the United States.”

Observed every May, World Trade Month is an opportunity to highlight the many ways that international trade spurs innovation and strengthens the U.S. economy by creating pathways to prosperity across the country, including for small and medium sized enterprises, minority and women-owned businesses, and rural communities.

Over the course of the month, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA) will both host and participate in a variety of in-person and virtual events, trade missions and programming to help U.S. businesses compete and win in the global economy.

The full calendar of World Trade Month events and other resources, including the National Export Strategy, can be found on trade.gov/world-trade-month.

Bureaus and Offices

International Trade Administration

Leadership

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First Responder Network Authority

5x5 Summit: Commerce Agencies Work Together to Advance Public Safety Communications

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:36:30 +0000

5x5 Summit: Commerce Agencies Work Together to Advance Public Safety Communications

April 24, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 04/24/2024 - 15:36

First responder network

This June, two agencies within the U.S. Department of Commerce are coming together to advance communications technology for public safety.

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology Public Safety Communications Research Division (NIST PSCR) have complemented each other’s work for more than a decade on projects ranging from public safety innovation challenges to technology development.

This year, the two agencies will host the second annual 5x5: The Public Safety Innovation Summit. There, leaders in public safety, government, industry, and academia will collaborate to build the future of public safety technology.

What is 5x5?

5x5: The Public Safety Innovation Summit is a three-day summit in Chicago from June 25-27.

5x5 unites leading experts involved in emergency communications technology, including public safety personnel, industry leaders, technology researchers, innovators, and government officials. 5x5 is a collaborative experience focused on exchanging technical lessons learned, spreading new ideas and sparking conversations.

Be Inspired. Expand your knowledge by hearing industry professionals, government officials, and public safety leaders talk about research breakthroughs, staying motivated in their mission, finding success in technology, and turning obstacles into new ideas for R&D and operations.

Build Connections. Network with colleagues during panels and breakout sessions, and connect with peers and professionals outside your day-to-day experience to gain new insights into public safety communications.

See and do. With over 70 technology demonstrations planned, take part in testing and experimenting with the latest public safety communication technologies. Whether you’re a researcher, public safety official, or developer, discover innovative solutions designed to help responders stay safe and save lives.

What to expect at 5x5 in June?

Attendees can expect an exciting line-up of activities:

Three Plenary Sessions. This year’s 5x5 will feature three plenary sessions, showcasing innovative new technologies for public safety.

In the Taking Flight: PSCR’s PULSE Accelerator Pitch Session, seven teams of innovators from PSCR’s Pulse Accelerator program will present their investor pitches on drone use for public safety applications to a diverse panel of judges for feedback.

In the Public Safety Advancements Around the Globe session, representatives from around the world will speak on recent public safety technology advancements and unique challenges for their countries.

Lastly, in the Results from the First Responder Smart Tracking (FRST) Challenge, we will hear about the prize challenge, which aims to provide better situational awareness technologies for responders. Attendees will see action from the field-testing phase, watch exclusive video footage from the event, and learn about the next phase.

Five Keynote Sessions. This year we will welcome five keynote speakers to share insights on their experiences within the public safety communications field.

We are honored to host U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell; Chicago Police Department Lieutenant Jermaine Harris; Southern Platte Fire Protection District Fire Chief and FirstNet Authority Board Chair Richard Carrizzo; NIST PSCR Division Chief Dereck Orr; and FirstNet Authority Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Joseph M. Wassel.

70+ Tech Demos and 40 Breakout Sessions. Expand your technology horizons and harness a collaborative networking environment through hands-on interaction with various technology demos and breakout sessions. Our hand-picked demos and interactive sessions cover topics from location services and situational awareness to mission critical services to user experience.

Register Today!

Whether you are a researcher, industry professional, government official, or public safety personnel, 5x5 is the place to be for all thing public safety communications. With keynote sessions and plenaries, over 70 live technology demos, and numerous breakout sessions including technical deep dive discussions, this year’s 5x5 will expand your knowledge and understanding of public safety technology while building new connections with other leaders in the field.

If you haven’t already, be sure to register for 5x5 today! For more information on speakers, sessions, technology demos, contact information and more, visit the 5x5 website.

See you in June!

Bureaus and Offices

Tags

Public Safety

Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves Honor Denim Day

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:35:37 +0000

Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves Honor Denim Day

April 24, 2024

[email protected] Wed, 04/24/2024 - 11:35

April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) and there are a myriad of ways to demonstrate your support for safe and healthy environments free of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and other harmful behaviors. One way is to participate in Denim Day.

Denim Day is a long-running internationally recognized grassroots sexual violence awareness and education campaign. It calls for participants to wear jeans on this day as a sign that they reject victim-blaming and misconceptions that surround sexual violence.

Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, or ethnicity. Challenging misconceptions surrounding sexual violence remains an important effort in combating these incidents.

We are proud to wear denim today to demonstrate our continued commitment to supporting those who have experienced sexual violence. Our ultimate goal remains the prevention of these harmful behaviors from ever occurring. Every employee contributes to the Department’s culture, just as everyone has a role in prevention.

We ask that you join us and countless others across the world by wearing denim today as an outward sign that you reject sexual assault and sexual harassment.

Leadership

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