Business Leaders to Discuss Investing in Women

A rapidly growing number of businesses have launched programs specifically aimed at economically strengthening women, particularly those in developing and emerging economies. The private sector has come to recognize what the global development community has long known: investing in women pays dividends in social and economic progress.

Traditionally, the work of developing economic opportunities for poor women has been the role of governments, multilateral organizations such as the United Nations and charities both small and large. As the private sector enters this space, there is unprecedented opportunity for more of the world’s women to participate equally in the global economy.

The International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) on March 7 will explore some of these private sector initiatives targeting women, during its fourth gathering in its Passports to Progress discussion series. To be held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., “The Bottom Line: How Big Business is Empowering Women and Girls,” will feature a panel with representatives from The Coca-Cola Company, Criterion Ventures, Ikatu International and Women’s World Banking. Judy Woodruff, PBS NewsHour’s senior correspondent, will moderate. The event is sponsored by Vestergaard Frandsen. 

Panelists are expected to briefly discuss their company’s efforts aimed at women as well as offer their take on the challenges and opportunities in this growing area of private sector investment in women’s economic empowerment.