CDB champions women entrepreneurs through CAN Market partnership

Saturday, 21 March 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Collaboration aims at empowering women entrepreneurs, driving sustainable futures women entrepreneurs supported with financial solutions and community backing

In a strong move to empower women entrepreneurs reflecting the IWD 2026 theme ‘Give to Gain’, Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) reinforced its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and sustainable local businesses by partnering with The Creative Isle Ltd. for the International Women’s Day edition of CAN Market. Aligned with the objective of empowering women entrepreneurs within the Wings Ecosystem, this initiative was conducted to provide greater visibility, financial accessibility and digital enablement for women-led businesses. Underlining CDB’s dedication to community-driven initiatives, the MoU signaled a partnership that would further the Market’s eco-conscious lifestyle ethos.

Held from 6 to 8 March at Arcade Independence Square, Colombo, the Women’s Day edition of CAN Market successfully brought together a vibrant collective of women-led enterprises, creative brands and eco-conscious businesses. The event provided a dynamic platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products, connect with conscious consumers and set the stage for future phases of the CAN Market initiative.

Visitors experienced a diverse range of offerings from artisans and women-led businesses, while enjoying the convenience of digital payment solutions. CDB facilitated seamless transactions through QR payments and exclusive benefits for customers using CDB SELF, enhancing both accessibility and overall shopping experience.

Speaking on the initiative, CDB Brand Manager Michelle Jackson stated “At CDB, we believe that empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting sustainable businesses is vital for community progress. Through the Wings Ecosystem, we continue to create opportunities that enable women-led enterprises to grow by providing financial solutions, visibility and digital convenience. The CAN Market initiative reflects this commitment by bringing together entrepreneurs, conscious consumers and a supportive community that encourages sustainable and inclusive growth”

This partnership highlights CDB’s strategic focus on strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs), fostering inclusive growth and building a sustainable future where women entrepreneurs receive the recognition and resources they deserve.