NDB Bank’s scheme empowers women entrepreneurs to reach global markets

Above: At the launch of this initiative.

NDB Bank, together with News 1st, has unveiled the next phase of the Sri Lanka Vanithabhimana initiative, a long-term sustainability model aimed at nurturing and advancing women entrepreneurs. Building on the success of the Sri Lanka Vanithabhimana Awards, this new chapter is designed not only to celebrate women’s achievements but also to catalyse meaningful economic transformation through structured support and upskilling, the bank said in a media release.

"As part of our sustainable efforts through Vanithabhimana, we are proud to launch this programme that will equip women entrepreneurs with critical skills for business growth," said NDB Bank CEO Kelum Edirisinghe, during the ceremony. "With over 140 women entrepreneurs already registered since opening applications, this initiative demonstrates the strong demand for structured entrepreneurial development in Sri Lanka." 

This sustainable model has been carefully developed with a five-year vision, aligning with the nation’s critical priorities such as job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and enabling women to scale their businesses to international standards.

As the inaugural phase of this programme, NDB Bank will launch the Women's Entrepreneurship Support Course (Vanitha Vyawasayakathva Athwela), a three-month programme meticulously designed to provide practical knowledge and real-world insights to aspiring and existing women entrepreneurs. This course will be conducted free of charge and will cover a range of key areas, including Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Accounting, Sales, and Marketing, delivered by experienced professionals and industry experts.

Through this initiative, participants will not only gain vital business acumen but also access a supportive ecosystem that encourages resilience, innovation, and growth. The course will be available to any enthusiastic women entrepreneurs eager to elevate their business.

The Vanithabhimana up-skilling programme cements NDB’s role not just as a banking partner but as a nation-building institution devoted to creating lasting, positive impact through empowerment and inclusion. For more details visit https://www.ndbbank.com/banking-on-women/vanithabhimana or contact Thishani at 0765699251.