India’s IT sector is advancing rapidly, with its revenue projected to exceed $300 billion by 2030. Technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and digital transactions are now part of daily life—and the industry’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes have the potential to drive substantial social impact, especially for underserved women.
By promoting digital access, skill development, and financial literacy, tech-driven CSR initiatives can support women’s economic empowerment and help bridge the digital gender divide.
CSR in the Tech Sector: A Strategic Shift
Since the Companies Act of 2013 made CSR mandatory, companies meeting specific financial thresholds are required to allocate at least 2% of their average net profits to CSR activities. This legal mandate has led many IT companies to invest in programmes focused on women’s empowerment, inclusive growth, and workforce diversity.
Leading firms such as TCS, Infosys, and Wipro have launched initiatives aimed at enhancing career readiness and re-entry support for women. For example, TCS’s Rebegin programme supports women returning to the workforce, promoting diversity and reducing the gender gap in tech roles.
Key Focus Areas for Tech CSR Empowerment
Digital Education for Girls
Access to digital education can transform the lives of young girls in underserved areas. Tech companies can partner with NGOs and schools to provide STEM scholarships, host coding workshops, and offer learning apps to prepare girls for careers in science and technology.
Smile Foundation’s Mission Education initiative supports quality education for children from disadvantaged communities. In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the programme integrates STEM learning into school curricula. Additionally, scholarships for girls pursuing engineering ensure that financial challenges do not hold them back from achieving their academic and career aspirations.
Skilling Women Entrepreneurs in Digital Tools
Many women entrepreneurs face barriers in leveraging digital platforms for business growth. CSR efforts in tech can bridge this gap through training in e-commerce, social media marketing, and data analytics. These skills are vital for improving business operations and expanding reach, especially in rural areas.
Promoting Digital Financial Literacy
CSR projects can also improve digital financial literacy among underserved women by teaching them how to manage money using online banking, budgeting tools, and mobile wallets. Financial knowledge empowers women to make informed decisions and gain greater control over their personal and family finances.
Ensuring Accessible Technology
Tech companies should prioritise inclusive product design, ensuring that digital tools and platforms are accessible to all women, including those with disabilities. This includes assistive devices, adaptive software, and accessible web interfaces to remove barriers to digital access.
A Scalable Model for Women Empowerment
Through focused CSR action, IT companies have the tools to advance gender equality and economic inclusion. These efforts support long-term development and self-reliance.
Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman programme is an example of such an effort. It empowers women across eight states with digital literacy, entrepreneurship skills, and financial education. In 2023 alone, over 150,000 women were trained, helping them integrate technology into small businesses and improve livelihoods.
By supporting skilling, financial independence, and digital access, technology-driven CSR programmes are transforming the lives of women and girls across India. The IT sector’s contribution is not only strengthening communities but also building a more equitable and empowered workforce for the future.
