Sponsors join the Council and gain access to research findings, co-branding rights on published studies, and participation in working groups that shape the research agenda. The model creates a non-sales relationship between Defiant and enterprise buyers that frequently evolves into consulting engagements.
This is workforce inclusion with a business model, not a charity.
Quantifying the economic impact of veteran workforce integration in contingent labor programs. Published white paper and Heroes in Service event series.
Research on the structural barriers women face when re-entering the workforce after career breaks. Conducted in partnership with Akraya, examining contingent and direct-hire pathways for returners.
Research on integrating neurodiverse and disabled workers into contingent workforce programs. Survey instruments and working group in development.
Examining the economic impact of age discrimination in contingent labor markets and the untapped value of experienced professionals in flexible work arrangements.
Research on integrating formerly incarcerated and justice-involved individuals into contingent workforce programs. Measuring employer outcomes, retention, and the business case for second-chance hiring.
Examining how autonomous AI agents are reshaping contingent workforce strategies, program governance, and the definition of "worker" itself. Implications for classification, compliance, and the future of human-machine workforce design.
Analyzing the labor market infrastructure gaps created by onshoring and nearshoring trends. Talent pipeline capacity, regional skills readiness, and the workforce systems required to support domestic manufacturing and knowledge work expansion. A ReshoreReady Partners initiative.