The HNB Sustainability Foundation initiated this grant program to assist microfinance entrepreneurs in restarting and accelerating their businesses. Considering the success of last year’s initiative, where LKR 34.8 million was disbursed among 348 microfinance entrepreneurs, we are pleased to announce an additional allocation of LKR 5.2 million for the year 2024. These funds will be distributed as grants to 52 selected microfinance entrepreneurs, covering 13 districts. This initiative, initially launched in 2020/2021, aims to revive and revitalize businesses during challenging times.
HNB is committed to fostering a new wave of entrepreneurship to drive growth, development, and a more prosperous future for Sri Lanka's rural and agrarian communities. Through a multi-stakeholder partnership, we aimed to support and uplift local entrepreneurs.
Our goal is to empower 30,000 Agripreneurs across the nation, equipping them to modernize their businesses and boost productivity over the coming year. By championing innovation and providing essential resources, HNB is dedicated to building a resilient, sustainable future for the backbone of Sri Lanka’s agricultural economy.
Through this initiative, HNB empowers small-scale businesses by providing them with dedicated, cashless selling spaces at branch locations and our head office. Supported by our marketing division, merchants are given custom-built huts, branded spaces, and exclusive counters, helping them connect with customers in a prominent setting. Our Microfinance officers offer daily management and sales tracking support, ensuring smooth operations and encouraging financial discipline. To expand their opportunities, merchants rotate between branches and the head office, reaching new audiences and building a broader customer base. HNB also organizes awareness programs on business management, marketing, accounting, dress etiquette, and financial literacy, equipping micro-entrepreneurs with essential skills. Additionally, merchants are introduced to digital tools that streamline transactions and enhance efficiency. Through this comprehensive approach, HNB is fostering sustainable growth and financial inclusion, helping small businesses succeed in a modern, cashless economy.
Empowering women entrepreneurs is a powerful catalyst for economic development, sparking innovation, generating jobs, and enhancing market competition. By focusing on women-led businesses, our programs contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant business ecosystem, bridging the gender gap in ownership and leadership roles. These initiatives provide women with the critical skills, resources, and networks they need to thrive, promoting equal opportunities and representation. Through targeted support, we are building a stronger, more diverse economy where women entrepreneurs can lead, grow, and make a lasting impact.
By 2020, we had bolstered this commitment with the establishment of 251 women-friendly SME desks and a substantial financial pledge to support female-led enterprises. Today, with 46% female representation in our workforce and national recognition as a leading women-friendly workplace, we continue to inspire and uplift women across Sri Lanka, driving community revival and sustained empowerment.
