EthicalX: Climate & Innovation Hub, a global initiative spearheaded by Clima Trust and SLYCAN Trust, has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 cohort and affiliate network. The initiative is seeking entrepreneurs focused on developing ethical, sustainable, and climate-conscious solutions to join a vibrant community of innovators and change-makers.
As the interest in sustainable entrepreneurship surges in Sri Lanka, many emerging businesses within the entrepreneurial landscape are encountering various obstacles, including difficulties in securing financing, accessing mentorship and advice, a lack of professional networking opportunities, limited technical skills, and restricted market access.
Tackling these issues necessitates cooperative efforts among entrepreneurs, public sector representatives, private sector stakeholders, and the broader innovation community, along with enhanced engagement with policy frameworks and sustainable development goals.
Building on insights and experiences gained from previous cohorts and support initiatives, EthicalX is committed to offering the new cohort a comprehensive support package tailored to the needs identified by entrepreneurs and stakeholders. This support will include financial assistance for selected projects, with additional support for lifestyle-focused entrepreneurs provided in collaboration with c.fuge.
This announcement was made during the EthicalX Entrepreneurship Gathering held in Colombo on August 6, 2026.
“EthicalX, as a global initiative, strives to recognize and address the opportunities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs. This effort is part of a larger mission to enhance the connections between entrepreneurs, public and private sectors, and policymakers. By integrating practical experiences with policy discussions and fostering international collaboration, our goal is to build robust ecosystems that support the growth of ethical, sustainable, and climate-friendly businesses in Sri Lanka and beyond,” remarked Dennis Mombauer, Director of Research & Knowledge Management at Clima Trust.
Nimasha Perera, Co-founder of Star Mushrooms and a member of the EthicalX cohort, expressed, “Through my experience with EthicalX, I have gained invaluable connections with fellow entrepreneurs and others dedicated to sustainable solutions. The mentorship we received has been essential to our business journey, providing opportunities to learn from peers facing similar challenges.”
Nilushi Thenuwara from Eastern Soy Products, another participant in the cohort, shared that these connections have facilitated new collaborations. “As a family business, the networking opportunities provided by EthicalX have proven immensely beneficial. One notable partnership has been with a chef, and we are currently collaborating on recipe development as we prepare to expand our line of soy-based products,” she stated.
The launch event gathered entrepreneurs, mentors, and representatives from both public and private sectors, along with other stakeholders, to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and explore collaborative opportunities and future partnerships.
The focus of the 2026 cohort will be on supporting entrepreneurs engaged in sustainable food systems, fashion and lifestyle, and creative communication.
Established in Sri Lanka in 2022, EthicalX has evolved into a global initiative. Its initiatives across various countries contribute to an expanding knowledge base on how entrepreneurial ecosystems can bolster climate action while shaping broader policy discussions at both national and international levels.
Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the 2026 EthicalX cohort or affiliate network can apply online at https://s.surveyplanet.com/gaa4vmky.
For additional information, interested parties can reach out to the EthicalX team via email at info@ethicalx.org.
Source: Financial Chronicle Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.
