The Running Event (TRE) and the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC) are celebrating their fourth consecutive year of partnership to foster inclusivity and racial diversity within the US running industry. RIDC, an educational nonprofit focused on increasing visibility and access for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), is working closely with TRE to drive transformative change in the industry.
At the upcoming TRE 2024, scheduled for Nov. 19-21 at the Austin Convention Center, RIDC will present an educational session, The Future of Run Specialty from the RIDC Lens: Relevance and Consumer Loyalty, designed to help brands, retailers, and community partners enhance consumer trust and engagement through inclusive practices. Additionally, RIDC will host two key community events: The CommUnity Run, sponsored by Saucony, and The Cookout, offering networking opportunities for attendees, exhibitors and the Austin community.
RIDC’s ongoing initiatives include scholarships for BIPOC-owned or managed retail businesses, which allow them to participate in TRE and strengthen industry representation. The coalition will also spotlight the recipient of its Run The Block grant, awarded to emerging BIPOC-run ventures in the running sector.
“RIDC has been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive environment at The Running Event,” said Christina Henderson, TRE Event Director. “Their presence has driven meaningful change, inspiring the brands and retailers we serve.” Kiera Smalls, Executive Director of RIDC, emphasized the coalition’s mission: “Our involvement is the result of a deliberate, continuous effort to create visibility and inclusion for BIPOC communities. We’re committed to pushing for further change.”
Launched in 2006, TRE is North America’s leading conference and trade show for the run and outdoor specialty markets, attracting professionals focused on footwear, apparel, and gear innovation. Since fall 2022, the outdoor trade fair Switchback has also been taking place at TRE, which will have the OIA as a partner from next year (as our sister publication The OIC has previously reported).
