The REI Foundation, the charitable arm of outdoor recreational equipment and clothing retailer REI, has announced a $1.5 million grant to the Outdoor Industries Women's Coalition to accelerate women's leadership roles in the outdoor recreational industry.

Named for the company's co-founder, the Mary Anderson Legacy grant was awarded in support of an OIWC-led initiative to spur innovation and increase the number of mentor women entrepreneurs in the industry. The initiative, which includes pledges form thirteen industry CEOs to increase women's leadership at their companies, aims to build programs and services for the industry to better serve women leaders; offer matching grants for companies that join OIWC's member network or elevate their level of membership; and create new opportunities for entrepreneurial women. In addition, participants will have an opportunity to pitch ideas directly to senior industry executives twice annually.

"Change starts at the top, and coming together like we have is a testament to the strength of our shared values. I encourage other leaders in our industry to join in this commitment," said REI CEO Jerry Stritzke. "This work will change the nature of innovation and leadership in our industry, which is a big part of the U.S. economy, supporting [some six] million jobs."