In the wake of COVID-19 and the protests following the death of George Floyd, Salt Lake City leaders and community members wanted to understand their options for addressing existing equity disparities and needs within Salt Lake City. It was determined that focusing these efforts on the West Side of Salt Lake City, which is lower-income and more diverse, would have the greatest impact on equity disparities.

The Sorenson Impact Institute identified early childhood care and education, along with workforce development, as potential sectors for interventions to address these disparities. Both interventions leverage public-private partnership financing strategies to eliminate equity disparities and promote economic development on the West Side. The Institute created an analysis report, including specific policy and program recommendations, for the Salt Lake City Mayor and Executive Team.