Daraz partners NEDA to expand e-commerce access for entrepreneurs with “Daraz Connect”

 Daraz Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) under the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, recently launched “Daraz Connect,” a pioneering initiative aimed at integrating entrepreneurs into Sri Lanka’s digital economy. 

This program, in partnership with the Government, provides small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and aspiring entrepreneurs with essential e-commerce training, empowering them to leverage digital platforms to grow their businesses. Through providing rural sellers with practical knowledge and access to a thriving online marketplace, Daraz Connect will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion and economic empowerment.

The first session of Daraz Connect in 2025 was recently held in Matara, reinforcing the company’s mission to bridge the gap between traditional businesses and the ever-evolving world of e-commerce. Through a series of online and offline workshops, Daraz Connect gives participants hands-on experience in setting up digital storefronts, optimising product listings, and using digital marketing strategies to reach wider audiences. The program also introduces participants to Daraz Sri Lanka’s logistics and payment solutions, ensuring they can operate seamlessly in the digital space without upfront costs or financial barriers.

At the core of this initiative is Daraz University, Daraz’s longstanding virtual educational resource designed to provide structured learning opportunities for sellers. Under Daraz Connect, and through Daraz University, the workshops cover the fundamentals of e-commerce, from understanding customer behaviour to managing inventory efficiently. Daraz Sri Lanka also offers end-to-end logistics support, payment facilitation, and direct access to millions of customers, which is creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive with minimal investment, making e-commerce an accessible and sustainable growth path.

Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara said: “The NEDA welcomes this partnership with Daraz Sri Lanka as an important step towards modernising retail and expanding economic opportunities across the country. By working together, we aim to leverage digital technology to support entrepreneurs, strengthen small businesses, and create jobs, ensuring that economic progress reaches every region, including rural and underserved areas. Through initiatives like Daraz Connect, we look forward to fostering innovation and sustainable growth in Sri Lanka’s digital economy.” 

Daraz Sri Lanka Managing Director Ehsan Saya said: “Daraz Connect represents a significant step in bridging the digital divide for entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka. By providing sellers with the right tools, training, and access to a robust online marketplace, we are creating transformative economic opportunities that will drive long-term growth and sustainability. This partnership with the NEDA and the Government at large reaffirms our commitment to encouraging local businesses, fostering digital inclusion, and strengthening the country’s e-commerce ecosystem.”

Following the first workshop for 2025 in Matara, Daraz Connect will expand to multiple key regions, ensuring that entrepreneurs across the country benefit from this initiative. A series of workshops and training sessions will be conducted, supported by digital awareness campaigns to encourage more sellers to embrace the opportunities offered by e-commerce.

Through this initiative, Daraz is not only enabling SMEs and entrepreneurs to enter the digital marketplace but is also ensuring that Sri Lanka’s economic transformation is inclusive, far-reaching, and sustainable.