📈 India’s NASSCOM Launches Disha Mentorship Program in Sri Lanka to Boost Tech SMEs

India’s apex technology body, NASSCOM, has officially launched its flagship Disha Mentorship Program in Sri Lanka. This marks the initiative's first international expansion outside India, aiming to scale technology small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through cross-border partnerships. • Overall Impact: The initiative will provide structured guidance and sustained strategic mentorship to an inaugural cohort of 48 Sri Lankan technology SMEs to help them overcome business challenges and enter new markets. • National Context & Objectives: According to the Digital Economy Ministry, the program comes as Sri Lanka transitions from economic stabilization to growth. It is designed to drive digital transformation, accelerate export earnings, and generate high-value employment by addressing gaps in commercial strategy, leadership, and international market access. • Bilateral Cooperation: The partnership strengthens India–Sri Lanka technology ties, complementing existing digital infrastructure initiatives like the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SLUDI) project and future collaborations in Artificial Intelligence (AI). • Key Stakeholders: The program is supported by the Indian High Commission, the Government of Sri Lanka, and local ecosystem partners including SLASSCOM, Hatch, TRACE Expert City, and The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.