The Washing Machine Project

About

The Washing Machine Project is a UK-based social enterprise that designs, manufactures, and distributes low-cost manual washing machines to alleviate the daily burden of hand washing for women and girls in low-income, remote, and displaced communities worldwide. Leveraging partnerships with corporate sponsors, local NGOs, charities, and in-country experts across 13 countries, the company has delivered the Divya Washing Machine to over 46,000 households and plans to reach 1 million people by 2030. Its distinctive approach combines engineering innovation with community-driven support—providing maintenance training, income-generating grants, and ongoing user guidance—to ensure sustainable, locally owned solutions. By integrating product design, international development, and humanitarian work, The Washing Machine Project empowers women and fosters resilience in some of the world’s most vulnerable settings.