Procter & Gamble has committed $30 million to women-owned business across India in a bid to cement its stance on gender equality, according to a report by the Economic Times.

The personal care giant will run the initiative over the next three years and will partner with WEConnect India to develop the program. As part of the initiative the two organizations will help to educate female entrepreneurs and will hold a series of supplier workshops across India, focusing on the impact a diverse and inclusive supply chain can have on the national economy and local communities.

Al Rajwani, MD & CEO, P&G India Sub Continent, said, “’We believe in the power of diversity because it is the right thing do for the growth of the business and the communities we operate in. Investing in women entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses makes sense for the economy, the community and for us. Our initiative is in line with the Indian Government’s efforts to empower women economically.
“By committing a percentage of our spending to women-owned businesses, we’re not only doing the right thing for the company, but we’re also being socially responsible. The impact of our spending with women-owned businesses helps to stimulate economic growth in communities who are often overlooked, which in turn promotes job creation and further opportunities.”

The move, which comes as part of P&G’s Citizenship activities, is the latest gender equality focus from the cosmetics giant. Indeed, following last year’s #metoo movement, the company launched a #WeSeeEqual campaign to promote equality.