Sampath Bank PLC is further establishing its role as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth through its “200 Women Startups Development Programme,” initiated under the flagship Sampath Saviya Entrepreneurship Development Programme. This nationwide effort aims to identify, nurture, and expand women-led enterprises across Sri Lanka. Recently, the programme achieved a significant milestone with a large-scale pitching event at the Sampath Bank’s Main Auditorium, which brought together aspiring female entrepreneurs, industry experts, academia, and institutional partners.

Women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in contributing to household income, employment generation, community development, and overall economic stability—factors that are essential amid Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery. However, many women face systemic barriers, such as limited access to finance, a lack of technical expertise, and constrained market exposure. To address these challenges, the programme is structured in a multiphase approach that combines knowledge-building, mentorship, and access to funding.

Discussing the importance and long-term vision of the initiative, Dr. Lalith Weragoda, Chief Human Resource Transformation Officer at Sampath Bank PLC, stated, “We believe that empowering women entrepreneurs is both a social responsibility and an economic imperative. Through the Sampath Saviya Entrepreneurship Development Programme, we are investing in the ideas, capabilities, and ambitions that can realize the future that Sri Lanka aspires to. Our goal through this initiative is to build an ecosystem that empowers at least 200 women-led businesses with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Furthermore, selected women entrepreneurs will receive the financial support they need to thrive and make a meaningful contribution to the national economy.”

The first phase of the programme was implemented in collaboration with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, identifying over 100 small-scale women entrepreneurs from across the country. These aspiring entrepreneurs participated in structured training sessions focusing on business planning, financial literacy, and market access, equipping them with practical tools to formalize, strengthen, and scale their ventures. The programme also helped them refine their business plans and understand their seed capital requirements.

The second phase featured a strategic collaboration with the Ceylon Entrepreneurs’ Club, aimed at fostering deeper industry engagement and exposure. This phase transitioned participants from preparation to real-world readiness. A comprehensive database of potential women entrepreneurs was developed, and participants were connected with experienced professionals and a prominent lecture panel who provided hands-on guidance, industry insights, and technical know-how.

The pitching event marked the culmination of these efforts, allowing entrepreneurs from both phases to present their business ideas before expert evaluation panels comprising representatives from Sampath Bank, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, NEDA, and the Ceylon Entrepreneurs’ Club. Conducted in a format inspired by globally recognized pitching platforms and local success models, the event offered a welcoming yet competitive environment where ideas were assessed for innovation, viability, sustainability, and growth potential. Consequently, the most promising startups are poised to receive further support, including access to seed and equity funding.

The Women Startups Development Programme exemplifies Sampath Bank’s broader commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship and long-term investment in women ready to lead, innovate, and shape the future of Sri Lanka’s economy.

Photo Caption: Pictured (top to bottom): Mr. Nuwan Pathirana, Head of Sustainability, Sampath Bank PLC, addressing participants; Prof. Sriyani Ranasinghe of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, sharing academic and industry insights; a mentoring and evaluation session in progress with participating entrepreneurs; and Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director, National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), highlighting the importance of structured support for women-led enterprises.