HNB launches transformation program for SMEs for global and local markets

HNB Senior Manager – Business Banking Jude Pillai (seated), interacting with attendees of the Transformation Program

Members of HNB’s management together with participants of the SME Transformation Program

HNB PLC, a cornerstone in Sri Lanka’s banking industry, continues to champion the cause of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) collaborating with DEVPRO and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce for the launch of their SME Transformation and Market Access Program.

Conducted at the HNB Towers, the program specifically targeted SME and Business Banking customers, focusing on those engaged in manufacturing and aspiring to tap into international markets. 

The initiative was jointly organised by DEVPRO and HNB, with the participation of an impressive 40 SME customers from both organisations across both days of the program.

“Through this initiative, we are striving to help Sri Lanka’s SMEs realise their fullest potential. In today’s digital age, even small companies can join global value chains more efficiently, thanks to lowered barriers on digital platforms. The potential for participation has expanded through increased modularisation and reduced communication costs, opening new possibilities for businesses of all sizes. 

“Emphasising the importance of connecting Sri Lanka’s SMEs to global value chains, upgrading business models, and adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices, our programme aligns with the vision for a more sustainable and inclusive economic landscape. We believe that empowering SMEs with these capabilities is pivotal not only for their success but also for the overall economic resilience and progress of Sri Lanka,” commented HNB DGM – SME and Microfinance Rajive Dissanayake. 

Facilitated by Upul Dassanayake of ‘Business Boost 360’, the program provided a platform for SMEs to delve into in-depth discussions and analyses aimed at catalysing strategic growth. Participants included businesses specialising in spices, coconut, cocoa, bag manufacturing, brush manufacturing, seafood, tea and batik, amongst others.

Ceremonially opened by HNB DGM – SME and Microfinance Rajive Dissanayake, the event was graced by notable personnel including Chamber of Commerce Head of Centre for SME Unit Yasura Samarakoon, DEVPRO Executive Director Tilak Karunaratne, and DEVPRO Program Manager Mohamed Shafeer.  

Panellists for the program included several of HNB’s senior management, including Head of Trade Rozanne De Almeida, Senior Manager – Foreign Exchange Vajira Abeysundara, Head of SME Products and Partnerships N. Kethiswaran, Head of Refinancing Schemes and Lending Products Bandara Rekogama, Solutions Manager – PCM Prasanna De Silva, and Senior Manager – Business Banking Jude Pillai. 

Key focus areas of the program encompassed export audit and strategic analysis, competency analysis, value chain analysis, financial analysis, product analysis, market analysis (including market research), finding buyers, and inbound and outbound marketing strategies with a comprehensive sales funnel approach.