NDB Bank and NEDA partner to empower MSMEs

Above: Official MoU signing between NDB Bank and representatives from NEDA

National Development Bank PLC (NDB) has partnered with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) to facilitate the "SME Connect" online platform. This strategic collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aims to empower Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) across Sri Lanka, with a special focus on women-led enterprises, NDB said in a media release.

The "SME Connect" platform, developed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and in consultation with Deloitte, is designed to offer learning, mentoring, and networking opportunities for MSMEs. By providing access to a wealth of resources, including reports, articles, tools, templates, success stories, and training programmes, the platform seeks to enhance the financial and business knowledge of entrepreneurs, with a particular emphasis on empowering women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka.

Moreover, this platform is trilingual and mobile-friendly, ensuring accessibility for a diverse range of users across Sri Lanka. Through "SME Connect," MSMEs will gain access to critical resources and networking opportunities that can help them thrive in today's competitive market.

Commenting on the partnership, Kelum Edirisinghe, CEO of NDB Bank, said, "At NDB, we believe that empowering MSMEs, particularly women-led enterprises, is essential for the sustained growth of our economy. Our partnership with NEDA through the 'SME Connect' platform represents a critical step in providing entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed in the digital age. By combining our financial expertise with NEDA’s support for enterprise development, we are creating a future where Sri Lankan entrepreneurs can thrive."