CCC Solutions and partners professional networking program empower SMEs in Central Province

CCC Solutions, a fully owned subsidiary of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce together with Institute of Chartered Accountants (CA) Sri Lanka and German Development Corporation (GIZ) successfully conducted a one-day event in Kandy to help empower the SMEs in the Central Province.

The program helped over 100 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) & Small and Medium Professionals (SMPs) to find new business opportunities by taking part in a Business Solutions Networking event. Participants received practical advice on best business practices, technology based solutions and access to finance and the government regulatory requirements for SMEs. Participants also had the opportunity link up with new partners, including more than 10 entrepreneurs from Eastern Province.

Welcoming the participants, CCC Solutions Ltd. MD/CEO Chandula Abeywickrema said, “Kandy Business Solutions Networking for SMEs and SMPs is a unique event; first of its initiatives to move SMEs towards sustainable business engagement not only to survive as a business entity but to expand and thrive as vibrant commercial business entities. CCCS in collaboration with GIZ, CA, Microsoft and four leading commercial banks fulfilled this ambitious  mission and hopes to take forward this initiative to the other regions of the country too.”

Speaking at the event Sri Lankan-German GIZ SME Development Program Senior Advisor German Mueller said, “Linking entrepreneurs across regions and with service providers will enhance their competitiveness and help them grow in a sustainable way.” GIZ also provided insights into social integration and business ethics through a lively theatre performance, challenging prejudices and inspiring thoughts for new business practices. 

CA (The institute of Chartered accountants) Sri Lanka, the apex body spearheading inclusive financial reporting and advisory in the country and their professional members, addressed the event about many challenging issues SMEs face in today’s dynamic business environment and advised on proper financial record keeping, reporting and planning, which require professional guidance. Delivering the keynote address, CA Vice President Lasantha Wickremasinghe stated the importance of SME and SMP partnership to mutually benefit each other. 

Further, the advantage of utilising a professional’s expertise in record keeping and other related accounting services and as a result the overall impact it could create on developing entrepreneurs and their businesses. Microsoft Sri Lanka facilitated and introduced affordable technology based business solutions to the SME’s that can strengthen their business to reap better benefits. Hatton National Bank, National Savings Bank, Sampath Bank and Seylan Bank who are mainly creating opportunity to access to finance came onboard to support this program identifying the financial needs looking at tailor made financial solutions and financial guidance required by SMEs. 

In further sessions, entrepreneurs learned about relevant regulations of the Export Development Board (EDB), services of the Industrial Technology Institute (ITI) and other government institutions. Microsoft Sri Lanka presented technical solutions for small and medium sized enterprises.

The Sri Lankan-German SME Development Program, implemented by GIZ in cooperation with Ministry of Finance, Sri Lanka, aims to support a cohesive policy framework enabling SMEs to grow in an inclusive and eco-friendly manner. Through a wide range of technical assistance, it helps enhance competitiveness of SMEs through technology transfer, innovation and improved access to finance. The program is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) of Germany.

While the morning session offered practical knowledge and exchange, the afternoon gave entrepreneurs and professionals the opportunity to link across regions and sectors.