International Supermarket News

The Walmart Foundation have announced a donation of $350,000, to the Vital Voices Latin America and Caribbean Women’s Business Network. The program seeks to strengthen women’s business networks, provide opportunities for women to enhance their skills and economic independence, and promote a culture of

"At Walmart, we are committed to providing opportunities for women around the world," said Doug McMillon, president and CEO – Walmart International. "Through this program, we aim to expand the number of women in business and advance the role of women in society."

Each network will offer mentoring programs and leadership training, host speakers programs through which business experts share knowledge and experience, deliver online business education programs and include an online peer learning and idea exchange community.

"We are so pleased to be partnering with Walmart as we launch this exciting initiative to train and mentor thousands of emerging businesswomen and entrepreneurs who will advance their nations and build stronger economies in Latin America and the Caribbean," said Alyse Nelson, president and CEO, Vital Voices. "We know that investing in women is not only the right thing to do, it's the smart thing to do."

More than 3,000 women are expected to benefit from the program in its first year.

"I am proud that Walmart is part of this important effort," said Eduardo Solórzano, president and CEO of Walmart Latin America. "This network will leverage resources across Latin America to help women improve their economic situation, support their families, and play a leadership role in their communities."

According to the United Nations Population Fund, of the world’s one billion poorest people, three fifths are women and girls. Of the 960 million adults in the world who cannot read, two thirds are women