Friday Oct 30, 2026
Friday Oct 30, 2026
Friday, 30 October 2026 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Industrial Development Board (IDB), operating under the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, has commenced accepting applications for the ‘i5 | FIVE Industry Excellence Journey & Awards 2026’, a national initiative aimed at recognising and promoting excellence in Sri Lanka’s manufacturing sector.
The program seeks to enhance productivity, innovation, competitiveness and sustainability among local manufacturers while creating opportunities for manufacturing enterprises across the country to improve their performance and prepare for the future of industry. Small, medium and large-scale manufacturing enterprises are invited to apply for this national initiative.
The ‘i5’ program goes beyond a conventional awards ceremony, offering a continuous journey towards industrial excellence and transformation. It is designed around the concept of Industry 5.0, which integrates technological advancement, human capabilities, resilience and sustainable growth to build a more competitive and future-ready manufacturing sector.
A key feature of the initiative is the development of case studies and videos documenting the success stories of award-winning enterprises. These will help share knowledge, practical experience and best practices with other entrepreneurs, encouraging continuous improvement and innovation across the manufacturing sector.
The assessment process will be conducted under three main pillars: Enterprise Excellence, Industry Excellence and Transformation Capability.
Enterprise Excellence focuses on leadership, financial and organisational performance, and stakeholder management. Industry Excellence evaluates manufacturing processes, automation, innovation, operational efficiency, digital capabilities and environmental sustainability. Transformation Capability assesses technology adoption, human resource development, the ability to respond to challenges and long-term sustainable impact.
The programme covers 21 assessment areas across these three pillars, with a total of 69 awards to be presented to enterprises in the small, medium and large-scale categories.
Who can apply? Small, medium and large-scale manufacturing enterprises registered in any district of Sri Lanka and engaged in active manufacturing operations for at least three years are eligible to apply. Micro-scale enterprises are not eligible for this programme.
Applicants will be evaluated through an assessment process that includes the examination of financial records, employee numbers and inspections of manufacturing premises, along with other relevant criteria.
Applications for the program are entirely free of charge. Eligible enterprises must complete and submit their applications online through the official website: www.ifive.idb.lk. The deadline for online applications is Monday, 9 November 2026, at 4.00 p.m.
