SLCSMI opens applications for Industrial Excellence Awards 2016

The Sri Lanka Chamber of Small and Medium Industries (SLCSMI) will hold its flagship event ‘Industrial Excellence Awards 2016’ this year, which fetes SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) for their achievements and contribution to Sri Lanka’s economic prosperity. This year’s event will be the 10th Awards program and applications are now available at all Bank of Ceylon branches, Peoples Bank branches, the IDB offices and at the SLCSMI Head Office in Colombo.  The application can also be downloaded from the Chamber website www.slcsmi.lk. This event has achieved national significance over the years in view of its professionalism and high standards.

According to Sri Lanka Chamber of Small and Medium Industries (SLCSMI) President Mohideen Cader, “The awards exemplify how businesses can contribute to the sustainable development of the country. We are proud to be conducting the Industrial Excellence Awards for the 10th year and encourage all micro, small and medium entrepreneurs across the country to make use of this opportunity to demonstrate their business success.”

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of our economy. SMEs bring about economic growth and financial stability by creating new employment opportunities; promoting investment and developing skills and also by connecting small and medium enterprises to regional and global markets, technological innovations and knowledge. SMEs generate 30% of employment and contribute more than 70% to Sri Lanka’s GDP. They also contribute significantly to the export sector in the country. Therefore, it is clear that promoting a sustainable and viable SME sector is essential in the nation’s development and growth.  The SLCSMI anticipates an overwhelming response from entrepreneurs across the country this year as well. Applications are available from 1 September and the closing date for all entries is 30 September. The winners will be judged by a panel of representatives from the Board of Investment (BOI), Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), Industrial Development Board (IDB), Ministry of Industry and Commerce and headed by a Professor from the University of Moratuwa. Awards will be presented to Micro, Small and Medium sector participants under the categories of Platinum, Gold and Silver at national level and Bronze awards at provincial level.

The Chamber of Small and Medium Industries (SLCSMI) which was established in 1963 is an independent, non-profit and non-political voluntary body. The Chamber offers support through start up loans, advisory and training facilities for the effective development of businesses in the small and medium enterprise sector. The SLCSMI also works with both local and international organisations and government authorities to support international business initiatives of micro, small and medium industrialists. The SLCSMI has served the SMEs in Sri Lanka for over five decades and celebrates its 53rd anniversary this year.