Unilever Sri Lanka supports women-led Micro Entrepreneurs through their partnership with IDB & WCIC

Unilever Sri Lanka and the Industrial Development Board (IDB) of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development handed over the second round of financing to ten female micro-entrepreneurs. This is part of the 3-year MoU signed by Unilever and the IDB in 2024, to provide financial and capability support to female entrepreneurs. By the end of 2025, 60 entrepreneurs will have been supported by the programme. Representing diverse industries, including Batik and Handloom, Confectionery, Footwear and Spices, they have been able to invest in and scale up their ventures.

The MoU was further strengthened this year through a partnership with the Women’s Chamber of Industry & Commerce (WCIC) for additional support with capability building for example, with mentoring and networking.

Mrs. Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, was the Chief Guest at the handover ceremony.

Ravi Nissanka, Chairman, IDB stated: “The program supports the national goal of boosting local manufacturing and fostering an export-driven economy. Providing training and mentoring to micro entrepreneurs in addition to financial support helps generate employment and export high-quality products in line with global standards.”

Ali Tariq, Chairman and CEO, Unilever Sri Lanka, commented: “Enhancing livelihoods is a key pillar of Unilever’s sustainability agenda. This partnership, with the IDB and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries, to support and empower women entrepreneurs, is one of our contributions to the social and economic development of Sri Lanka”

Gayani de Alwis, Chairperson of the WCIC expressed enthusiasm, stating: “Providing female entrepreneurs with the right knowledge, networks, and mentorship is key to their success. By strengthening their skills and business acumen, we are fostering a more dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem- empowering “women-owned women-led businesses” to scale their businesses and make a lasting impact.”