HSBC, Sarvodaya champion economic empowerment for women
View(s):
Wasanthi Madumali a women entrepreneur of the programmme from the Southern Province in Sri Lanka receiving the letter from Mark Surgenor, CEO of HSBC Sri Lanka
HSBC, in partnership with Lanka Jathika Sarvodaya Shramadana Sangamaya (LJSS) and Sarvodaya Fusion, has launched the Women Empowerment and Digital Inclusion Programme. This two-year initiative empowers women-led SMEs in five provinces by providing training, mentorship, seed funding, and market access, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty).
The programme aims to promote economic equality, and support women entrepreneurs. So far, 193 women have been trained in financial literacy, sustainable entrepreneurship, leadership, and digital marketing. A business incubator provides ongoing mentorship, and an online platform helps women to market their products and connect with local and international buyers, the bank said in a media release.
In November 2024, the programme’s Idea Hackathon identified 20 outstanding women entrepreneurs from diverse industries, including apparel, food, agriculture, and crafts, who were awarded seed funding to expand their businesses. This funding will not only support the growth of women-led enterprises but also create new job opportunities, marking a pivotal milestone in the initiative’s journey.
Beyond financial support, the Women Empowerment and Digital Inclusion Programme equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become leaders in their communities and industries. By fostering sustainable business growth and social resilience, the initiative contributes to long-term economic empowerment and inclusive development in Sri Lanka.
“As a woman in business and a seamstress, the knowledge I have gained through this programme has been immense. The seed funding I received has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a sustainable woman entrepreneur, and I am now able to grow and expand my business” says Wasanthi Madumali, a women entrepreneur of the programmme from the Southern Province of Sri Lanka.
Sarvodaya Fusion, the ICT for Development (ICT4D) arm of the Sarvodaya movement, is committed to leveraging digital technology for social and economic development across Sri Lanka.
Hitad.lk has you covered with quality used or brand new cars for sale that are budget friendly yet reliable! Now is the time to sell your old ride for something more attractive to today's modern automotive market demands. Browse through our selection of affordable options now on Hitad.lk before deciding on what will work best for you!