Fortune 500 Participation Plummets in 2026 Corporate Equality Index
A significant decrease in participation by Fortune 500 companies was recorded in the Human Rights Campaign's 2026 Corporate Equality Index.
The index, which rates companies on workplace equity and social responsibility policies, saw participation from 131 Fortune 500 firms, down from 377 the previous year—a decrease of 65% year-over-year.
Key Findings from the 2026 Index
- Participation from Fortune 500 companies decreased by 65% year-over-year.
- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) reported that 1,450 total companies participated in the 2026 index.
- Of those participants, 534 companies received a perfect score of 100, representing nearly 6 million U.S.-based employees.
- The HRC noted that many of the companies that ceased participation hold federal contracts.
Background on the Corporate Equality Index
The Corporate Equality Index (CEI) was launched by the HRC in 2002. It is an annual benchmarking tool that rates businesses on their policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) workplace equality.
Recent Changes in Corporate Participation
In recent years, several major corporations that previously participated have withdrawn from the CEI. These companies include Tractor Supply, Walmart, Ford, and Lowe's.
- Walmart stated that it had conversations with conservative activist Robby Starbuck, who has publicly advocated for a shift away from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, prior to its withdrawal.
- This marks a change from previous years when companies like Ford and Walmart issued public statements supporting DEI efforts and highlighting their workplace achievements.
Sources describe a broader context of an anti-DEI movement over the past two years, which has reframed the index as a target for some conservative groups.
Statement from the Human Rights Campaign
"Our research shows the strength and the strain of this moment on LGBTQ+ workers, consumers and the companies that count on us."
HRC President Kelley Robinson commented on the report in the statement above.