Icons of the industry inspire and empower others to adopt eco-friendly behaviors, innovate sustainable solutions, and advocate for policies that protect the planet. Standard Chartered Bank (Taiwan) Limited prioritizes long-term environmental health over short-term gains, integrating sustainability into decision-making processes across various sectors. Concurrently, the company has also won a trophy under the Social Empowerment and Investment in People categories at the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards 2024, organized by leading regional NGO, Enterprise Asia.
Standard Chartered Bank (Taiwan) Limited, henceforth referred to as SCB Taiwan, has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) both within its workforce and in the broader community. This commitment is exemplified through two major initiatives: the “Women in Entrepreneurship” (WiE) project and the “Best Advance In Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Initiatives” project.
The “Women in Entrepreneurship” (WiE) project is a significant initiative aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs in Taiwan. This project was launched to provide essential support through upskilling workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Since its inception, the WiE project has successfully recruited 30 women-led businesses and engaged up to 60 young individuals, with 70% of these being women. The project’s focus is not only on enhancing the skills of current female entrepreneurs but also on inspiring and educating the next generation.
In addition, the “Best Advance In Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Initiatives” project has established a DEI council in 2021. This council, consisting of over 30 employees from various departments, has been pivotal in promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion within the bank. The council has developed five key workstreams: Gender Equality, Disadvantaged Equality, Well-being, Diversified Suppliers, and SC Pride (LGBT+ group), each aimed at raising DEI awareness and implementing local initiatives.
The bank’s DEI strategy for 2023 includes three main objectives: embedding diversity in company values and culture, contributing leadership to diversity, and innovating within the DEI space. These strategies have led to over 30 events organized by the DEI Council, attracting more than 1,000 participants, and significant outreach through social media, with 14 posts on DEI topics reaching over 10 million users.
SCB Taiwan’s DEI efforts are marked by leadership-driven initiatives and community engagement. The bank has introduced innovative practices such as a rainbow-themed ATM for Pride Month and sponsorship of an LGBT+ film to support the LGBT+ community. Additionally, SCB Taiwan has enhanced its employee benefits, including a minimum of 20 weeks of paid parental leave, regardless of gender or family structure, and introduced The Pride Charter to ensure a respectful and inclusive work environment.
Looking forward, SCB Taiwan aims to integrate DEI into its core operations and culture, striving to be the best place to work, the best place to bank, and to contribute to prosperous communities. By setting a high standard for diversity and inclusion, SCB Taiwan hopes to inspire other organizations and individuals to join in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Among the measures of a truly successful business is the relationship that it has built with the average person. By investing in people, SCB Taiwan further solidifies its reputation for excellence and dependability.
About Enterprise Asia
Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.
About Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA)
The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards program recognizes and honors Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible entrepreneurship in the categories of Green Leadership, Investment in People, Health Promotion, Social Empowerment, Corporate Governance, Circular Economy Leadership, Corporate Sustainability Reporting, and Responsible Business Leadership. For more information, visit https://enterpriseasia.org/area/.