Unilever and the Department for International Development (DFID) have formed a new partnership to create jobs, improve water and sanitation and develop sustainable supply chains in developing countries. The International Development Secretary, Justine Greening, signed a joint letter of intent with the Anglo-Dutch conglomerate's ceo Paul Polman which commits both organisations to work together to improve the lives of millions of people in developing countries and help end dependency on aid. The partnership is the first of its kind between a leading international business and the UK’s Department for International Development. DFID and Unilever will launch a joint initiative to use new social business models to improve health, hygiene and livelihoods for 100 million people by 2025. They will also each contribute £5m to a research and innovation programme focused on affordable sanitation and safe drinking water.