EDB partners Sampath Bank for improving digital presence of export potential SMEs

The Export Development Board (EDB) has initiated a series of awareness programs with the objective of improving the digital presence of export potential SMEs at the regional level in collaboration with Sampath Bank PLC.

The first two programs of this series were held in Kandy and Kurunegala, focusing on export potential entrepreneurs registered with the EDB New Exporter Development Program facilitating SMEs located in the Central and North Western provinces. 

The participants were educated on the importance of maintaining a digital presence in export-oriented businesses, introducing digital tools, and adapting digital marketing strategies in order to be updated on the latest best practices of the international market. A panel of EDB officers and industry resource persons conducted the sessions. Participants were given the opportunity to enhance their digital skills and competencies through practical sessions conducted during the program. 

The sessions also included presentations from Sampath Bank, Sri Lanka Telecom, and Sri Lanka Post to update participants on financial and other services available for further strengthening of their knowledge. 

During the sessions, EDB Director – Regional Development Division Sepalika Jayawardhana elaborated on EDB’s vision towards developing new exporters under the EDB New Exporter Development Program, highlighting the country’s need for export diversification and innovation.  Further, she stressed the need to improve the digital presence of exporters in order to enhance visibility and increase competitiveness in the international market.

Sampath Bank PLC International Banking Assistant General Manager Halin Hettigoda expressed the bank’s continuous commitment towards developing the export community, as the bank has identified the important role export SMEs play in uplifting the country’s economy.  He also stated that Sampath Bank supports strengthening export potential SMEs in Sri Lanka with a long-term vision of making a sustainable export community in Sri Lanka.

EDB wishes to expand this series of awareness programs to the Northern, Southern and Eastern provinces, as a substantial number of SMEs in these regions are already being developed by the EDB under the New Exporter Development Program, targeting the international market.