Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Wednesday, 5 February 2025 00:15 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi
The Regional Development Bank (RDB) recently launched a key initiative to strengthen the rural economy and promote entrepreneurship in Batticaloa under the patronage of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi.
The program, spearheaded by RDB, aims to integrate 15,000 new entrepreneurs into the economy, with a specific focus on women and youth in fisheries, agriculture, livestock, and industry.
As part of this effort, loans totalling Rs. 300 million were disbursed to support entrepreneurs across 150 Grama Seva Divisions in the Eastern Province.
The initiative aligns with the Government’s broader goal of creating a productive economy by fostering micro and small-scale enterprises. The bank plans to establish at least one entrepreneur per Grama Seva Division, covering all 14,022 divisions across the country.
Beyond financial assistance, the program offers technical support, including financial management training to enhance control and discipline, access to modern technology to improve productivity, market opportunities and networking to facilitate growth, and entrepreneurial training programs to equip participants with business skills.
Speaking at the event, Minister Handunneththi emphasised the Government’s commitment to supporting new entrepreneurs throughout their journey – from production to export. He highlighted the involvement of key institutions under the Industries Ministry including: the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), Industrial Development Board (IDB), National Crafts Council, National Design Centre, Laksala, Department of Small Industries Development, and the Export Development Board (EDB). These organisations will play a crucial role in mentoring and guiding entrepreneurs, ensuring that small businesses can integrate into local and global supply chains.
The launch event was attended by RDB Chairman Lasantha Fernando, Batticaloa District Secretary J.J. Muralitharan, Members of Parliament, Government officials, and local entrepreneurs.
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