Redefining Growth with Workers at the Center
The Inland Empire Labor Institute (IELI), program partner of the IELC, is at the forefront of transforming the Inland Empire into a worker-centered economy grounded in equity, sustainability, and regeneration. We empower workers across the region by strengthening workforce development, advising cooperative development, and ensuring workers have a voice in shaping economic development and redefining what economic growth looks like in the Inland Empire—one that works for everyone.
Who We Are
Who We Are
The Inland Empire Labor Institute (IELI) was established in 2020 by the Inland Empire Labor Council (IELC), affiliated with the AFL-CIO and formerly known as the Central Labor Council of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. While the IELC has long been an advocate for workers’ rights, it recognized the need for new, community-driven strategies to advance worker-centered economic development. In response, IELI was founded as a 501(c)(3) sister organization. Our mission is to build pathways for sustainable economic development in the Inland Empire—development that uplifts local workers, strengthens communities, and prioritizes long-term wellbeing over short-term profit. Too often, we see development projects that exclude local labor, overlook sustainable practices, and fail to deliver jobs that pay enough for workers to support their families. IELI exists to change that. We focus on aligning economic development with community values—supporting workforce development, worker owned cooperative business models, and industries that offer good-paying, union-track jobs. Our work is especially urgent in a region that faces some of the nation’s worst air quality and is on the frontlines of the climate crisis. IELI exists to change that. We focus on aligning economic development with community values—supporting workforce development, cooperative business models, and industries that offer good-paying, union-track jobs. Our work is especially urgent in a region that faces some of the nation’s worst air quality and is on the frontlines of the climate crisis.
Mission
The Inland Empire Labor Institute (IELI) is leading the region’s shift toward a worker-centered economy rooted in equity, sustainability, and regeneration. By working with local agencies, labor unions, and community partners, IELI is redefining good jobs and ensuring workers have a strong voice in shaping the economy & developing an ecosystem for community-driven economic development.”
Vision
We envision a future where our workers and their families earn a salary that not only meets their mortgage needs but also fosters a thriving family life. Our goal is to empower the skilled workers in our region to remain here and contribute to the growth of our community. The IE has the potential to thrive beyond logistics, led by the collective strength and talent of the Inland Empire community.
What We Do
At the Inland Empire Labor Institute, our work is rooted in the belief that a truly thriving economy puts workers and communities at the center. We advance a worker-centered economic model that prioritizes equity, sustainability, and regeneration. From strengthening local workforce development to supporting worker owned cooperative business models and investing in economic policies and jobs, we are reshaping what growth looks like in the Inland Empire—ensuring it is inclusive, resilient, and driven by the needs and voices of working people.
A Worker-Centered Economy Means:
- Workers are at the heart of economic decisions & they’re shaped with and by the people doing the work.
- Workers receive strong benefits, are able to afford mortgages, support their families, and build long‑term economic security.
- Opportunities for inclusive & equitable economic ownership.
Why the Inland Empire?
The Inland Empire is home to a skilled, unionized workforce and a growing population. As the region rapidly expands, there is a strong focus on addressing community needs and improving air quality & opportunities for economic development to ensure we build a strong foundation of good jobs for the region.
In the News
Working Hand-in-Hand with the
Inland Empire Labor Council, AFL-CIO
“The IE Labor Institute was created to catalyze inclusive economic development in our region. The IE’s 4.5 million residents represent Southern California’s diversity and the future of the US labor movement. Along with the Inland Empire Labor Council, IELI leads the way to quality jobs in our region.”
Ricardo Cisneros
Executive Secretary-Treasurer
Inland Empire Labor Council, AFL-CIO
Got Questions?
Contact Us
Whether you’re curious about our work, want to explore a partnership, or just have a resource to share, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to our team, and we’ll respond as soon as possible.
