The US' video games trade body The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is committing $1 million to a new initiative with education organisation Black Girls Code.

The news was announced on the lobbying group's website in a post that said that this was going to be a multi-year initiative that would help out education programs for girls and young women who have an interest in tech. This investment comes via the trade body's ESA Foundation philanthropic arm.

“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Our industry is committed to expanding opportunities in our sector by working to grow talent and spark interest and excitement for STEAM careers, especially for those from underrepresented groups,” said ESA president and CEO Stanley Pierre-Louise (pictured).

“Since the ESA Foundation’s mission focuses on diversity as a central tenet, it is ideally positioned to lead, develop and manage this industry initiative and bring to life our partnership with Black Girls Code. Our goal is to attract more girls and young women into software coding and related technology fields. We look forward to celebrating the success stories of these young women as they develop their skills and become technology leaders in the video game industry and beyond.”

In a statement, Black Girls Code added: “We are excited to work with the ESA Foundation and video game industry on increasing access and opportunities for girls and young women interested in exploring technology as educational and career options. By cultivating the next generation of developers, we hope to grow the number of women of colour in the technology sector who will ultimately become the future leaders in this space.”