Many are forced into low-skilled overseas labour or struggle with limited resources.
In response, HSBC, in partnership with Lanka Jathika Sarvodaya Shramadana Sangamaya (LJSS) and Sarvodaya Fusion, launched the Women Empowerment and Digital Inclusion Programme in July 2023.
This two-year initiative empowers women-led SMEs in five provinces by providing training, mentorship, seed funding, and market access, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty).
The program aims to promote economic equality, and support women entrepreneurs.
So far, 193 women have been trained in financial literacy, sustainable entrepreneurship, leadership, and digital marketing.
A business incubator provides ongoing mentorship and an online platform helps women to market their products and connect with local and international buyers.
In November 2024, the program’s Idea Hackathon identified 20 outstanding women entrepreneurs from diverse industries, including apparel, food, agriculture, and crafts, who were awarded seed funding to expand their businesses.
This funding will not only support the growth of women-led enterprises but also create new job opportunities, marking a pivotal milestone in the initiative’s journey.
Beyond financial support, the Women Empowerment and Digital Inclusion Programme equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become leaders in their communities and industries.
By fostering sustainable business growth and social resilience, the initiative contributes to long-term economic empowerment and inclusive development in Sri Lanka.
“As a woman in business and a seamstress, the knowledge I have gained through this program has been immense.
The seed funding I received has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a sustainable woman entrepreneur and I am now able to grow and expand my business” says Wasanthi Madumali a women entrepreneur of the programmme from the Southern Province in Sri Lanka.
Sarvodaya Fusion, is the ICT for Development (ICT4D) arm of the Sarvodaya movement, is committed to leveraging digital technology for social and economic development across Sri Lanka.
With a vision to transform all Sri Lankan communities into responsible digital citizens, it focuses on bridging the digital divide and empowering underserved and marginalized communities.
With over 15 years of experience in community-based works Sarvodaya Fusion have reached over 1/5th of the communities.
Join us to foster digital literacy, economic growth, and sustainable development.
Visit www.sarvodayafusion.org to get involved today.
You can also support these women entrepreneurs by purchasing their uniquely hand-crafted products through the WEDI platform as every purchase you make will help a woman in business of the SME sector in Sri Lanka. www.wedi.org.lk