The Eastern Province launch of the Regional Development Bank (RDB) entrepreneurship program, aligned with the government’s vision of fostering a manufacturing-driven economy, was held in Batticaloa on the January 30 under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti.
The initiative aims to integrate 15,000 new entrepreneurs into the national economy.
As Sri Lanka’s leading state development bank, RDB is implementing several programs to empower micro and small-scale entrepreneurs, with a focus on strengthening the rural economy.
This initiative seeks to create at least one entrepreneur in each of the country’s 14,022 Grama Seva Divisions, particularly encouraging participation from women and youth in key sectors such as fisheries, agriculture, livestock, and industry.
Beyond financial assistance, the program offers business training, financial discipline guidance, access to modern technology, and market opportunities.
As part of the initiative, Rs. 300 million in loans has been allocated, benefiting 150 Grama Seva Divisions in the Eastern Province.
Speaking at the event, Minister Handunnetti reaffirmed the Ministry of Industry’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs from production to export.
He highlighted the collaboration of institutions such as the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), Industrial Development Board (IDB), National Crafts Council, National Design Centre, Laksala, Small Industries Development Department, and Export Development Board (EDB) to facilitate business growth.