Corporate Social Responsibility as a Catalyst for Women Empowerment: A Dual Focus for Social and Economic Impact

Abstract

This study examines the function of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a strategic tool for promoting women's empowerment in both social and economic spheres in India. The study empirically examines the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and women empowerment, analyzing how strategic CSR programs can simultaneously generate positive social outcomes and economic returns. Using a mixed-methods approach with data from 150 multinational corporations across various industries over a five-year period (2019-2023), this research demonstrates that targeted CSR programs focusing on women empowerment yield significant improvements in both social indicators and financial performance metrics. The findings reveal a positive correlation (r = 0.74, p < 0.01) between comprehensive women-focused CSR initiatives and organizational profitability, while simultaneously contributing to measurable improvements in gender equality indicators within participating communities.