BOC empowers SME export entrepreneurs through Export Circle

Wednesday, 10 July 2024 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Bank of Ceylon Assistant General Manager Trade Services K.K. Susantha addressing potential exporters

In a significant move towards empowering SME exporters around the country, BOC has partnered with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) to conduct province-wise capacity building programs for potential and existing export SME customers in all

provinces.

These initiatives are organised under “BOC Export Circle”, an export boosting effort in keeping with BOC’s resilient stand during the uncertain times. As Banker’s to the Nation, the bank has taken in its task to accommodate the exporters as well as budding exporters to transform them to become corporate exporters for the nation.

At the end of the program, SMEs will be able to draw a plan to build their capacities by overcoming their weaknesses and capitalising on their strengths and begin their export journey and develop a comprehensive export strategy to enter international market to achieve their maximum potential.

The training programs, held in multiple locations across the country, already conducted four export forums in Kandy, Central Province, Matara, Southern Province, Kuruwita, Sabaragamuwa Province and latest forum in Badulla, Uva Province on 6 July. There has been enthusiastic participation about 50 SME export customers in Uva Province and up to now more than 250 SME export customers benefited through this series of programs and expected to train more than 600 SME export customers throughout the country targeting every province.

Above programs conduct on various topics and programs will be delivered as a workshop with many real world examples and success stories of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs/SMEs who have used the SME Transformation and Market Access model. The Chamber of Commerce has transformed many SMEs and enabled them to become export-oriented companies through the SME Transformation and Market Access model developed by them. Furthermore, the training programs aim to instil a sense of confidence and empowerment among SME export entrepreneurs, by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.

Bank of Ceylon has deployed a proven and result oriented SME transformation expert resource person to carry out this series of training program.

The partnership between BOC and CCC underscores the importance of supporting SME entrepreneurs and promoting export strategy in the business sector. By providing SME with access to training and resources, BOC is helping to create a more inclusive and diverse business landscape in Sri Lanka.

BOC is not only supporting SME exporters in business but also contributing to the overall economic development of Sri Lanka. Exporters who undergo this bespoke programme are on boarded to the BOC Export Circle where they can enjoy various financial and non-financial services throughout their journey.

The collaboration between BOC and CCC is a testament to the bank’s commitment to empowering existing and potential exporters of the country and promoting financial inclusion in Sri Lanka. Through initiatives like these, BOC is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Sri Lankan exporters.