Chrysalis recognised for longstanding contribution to SME development

Wednesday, 24 June 2026 00:05 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s small and medium enterprise (SME) sector took a significant step forward with the launch of the ‘National SME Strategy Framework – SME NEXUS’ in Colombo recently.

Bringing together Government officials, development partners and industry stakeholders, the initiative aims to provide a unified roadmap to strengthen the SME sector, improve competitiveness and create new opportunities for sustainable economic growth across the country.

Chrysalis was recognised by the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry at the launch event for its longstanding contribution to SME development and efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The award was accepted by Chrysalis CEO Ashika Gunasena on behalf of the organisation.

Chrysalis is a Sri Lankan non-profit organisation and social enterprise that focuses on empowering women and youth, driving inclusive growth, and transforming communities. Formerly known as CARE Sri Lanka, it became an independent affiliate of CARE International in 2016.

During the event, Chrysalis was specifically acknowledged for its technical and collaborative contributions to national SME development efforts, including supporting the simplification of the Business Name Registration process and assisting the Ministry in strengthening the National Industry Database, among other initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and access within the SME ecosystem.

The recognition highlights Chrysalis’ continued work in supporting women-owned and women- and youth-led enterprises, livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth across Sri Lanka.

The SME NEXUS initiative introduces a strengthened national approach to SME development through a 5-pronged strategic outlook, 3 implementation approaches, and an 11-pillar strategy framework. Developed by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development with input from the SME Advisory Committee and key ecosystem stakeholders, the framework serves as a national platform for engagement.

It is designed to encourage broader stakeholder participation, strengthen partnerships, and align efforts across the SME ecosystem to improve coordination and effective implementation.

This recognition comes as Chrysalis marks its 10th anniversary on 10 May, celebrating a decade of community-driven development and social impact.

‘The organisation’ works across gender equality, youth leadership, social inclusion, climate resilience, peace building, and economic empowerment.

Commenting on the recognition, Ashika Gunasena said: “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of the communities, entrepreneurs, partners, and stakeholders we have worked with over the past decade. We believe inclusive entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods are key to building resilient communities and a stronger economy”.

Chrysalis welcomed the launch of ‘SME NEXUS’ as an important step toward supporting innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable growth opportunities for SMEs across Sri Lanka.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive entrepreneurship and supporting resilient enterprises that contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic transformation.