Women empowerment in Epyllion Group Bangladesh

Abstract

Epyllion Group is an apparel manufacturer in Bangladesh that has introduced corporate social responsibility programs to support women growers. The overall aim of this study was to assess how corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives have affected women's empowerment, the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, and how digitalization catalyses entrepreneurial growth. Conceptually, the study was anchored in women's empowerment and in entrepreneurship as an instrument for financial independence, while considering corporate social responsibility in developing countries. Women's empowerment is defined as a multidimensional process involving social, economic, and political empowerment, with a specific focus on how corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, when used, can access resources and build capacity through skilling.

This study used a mixed-methods design, combining qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with quantitative data collected using standardized questionnaires. Purposive sampling was applied to companies, women entrepreneurs, and CSR program managers directly involved in the company's activities. The results indicated an overwhelming positive contribution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities to women’s socio-economic empowerment through microfinance, skills development, and training in leadership. Through digitalization and e-commerce platforms, women can access broader markets and better economic independence. Still, there are many hurdles: women’s access to finance is limited, they have lower levels of digital literacy, and culture and social norms continue to hinder their entrepreneurial engagement. In conclusion, when combined with digital inclusion, corporate social responsibility has the potential to provide modest yet honest empowerment to women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh, enabling them to gain a sustainable livelihood beyond construction working or garment work.