📈 Sampath Bank Empowers 200 Women-Led Startups

Sampath Bank PLC has reached a key milestone in its Sampath Saviya "200 Women Startups Development Program," hosting a national-level pitching event to scale up female-led enterprises. The initiative aims to drive inclusive economic growth and stability during Sri Lanka’s recovery. • Overall Scope: Targeting the development of 200 women-led businesses across Sri Lanka to overcome barriers in finance, technical expertise, and market access. • Program Structure: • Phase 1: Partnered with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to provide training in financial literacy and business planning to over 100 entrepreneurs. • Phase 2: Collaborated with the Ceylon Entrepreneurs’ Club for industry mentorship and technical guidance. • Key Outcomes: • Aspiring entrepreneurs presented business ideas to expert panels evaluating innovation and sustainability. • Top-performing startups will secure access to critical seed and equity funding. • Focus remains on sectors that boost household income and employment generation nationwide. The program reflects a strategic investment in sustainable entrepreneurship, addressing systemic gaps to integrate more women into the formal national economy.