📈 LIIN Empowers Over 150 Northern Province Women Entrepreneurs at Emerging Women Summit

The Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) hosted the landmark Emerging Women Summit in Kilinochchi under the theme “Unlocking Markets and Capital for Women Entrepreneurs in Northern Province.” Funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented alongside WUSC, the event aimed to drive regional resilience and inclusive economic growth. • Overall Participation: Over 200 stakeholders attended, including more than 150 women entrepreneurs alongside government officials, financial institutions, and private sector representatives. • Financing & Growth: High-level discussions targeted access to finance and financial readiness. Industry experts from the Export Development Board and DFCC Bank addressed critical themes including financial literacy, business registration, tax compliance, and building corporate credibility. • Market Access & Branding: Panels focused on expanding small enterprises into national and export avenues, highlighting the necessity of digital marketing, product quality, packaging, and meeting buyer expectations. • Sectors & Local Production: • A vibrant marketplace featured over 40 stalls showcasing handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, and locally produced food and beverages. • An Entrepreneurs Fashion Ramp spotlighted creations from more than 25 women entrepreneurs to enhance product visibility and market exposure. • Key Stakeholders Involved: Institutional support was backed by the Department of Industries, Industrial Development Board, NEDA, University of Jaffna, Commercial Bank, and several regional chambers. Organisers reaffirmed long-term commitment through the GRIT Project to continue capacity-building, expand access to capital, and develop sustainable market linkages for women-led businesses in the region.