The United States’ large and persistent racial wealth gap flows from centuries of government policies that have systematically disadvantaged BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Americans’ ability to build, maintain, and pass on wealth to the next generation. Anchor institutions can be important levers of change and drivers of equitable and inclusive economic growth through their spending, investment, employment, and contracting by creating opportunities for local BIPOC business owners and residents. Local government and economic development organizations are engaging anchors as critical partners in advancing more inclusive economies by creating opportunities for all residents, and particularly communities of color, to fully participate and be the business owners, workers, innovators, and leaders who will propel the economy forward. We bring together this panel of institutional leaders who have successfully shifted internal institutional and small business procurement policies and practices to even the playing field for BIPOC business owners in New Orleans.