Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative advances SMEs with ExpoScaleUp

Friday, 6 June 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Union (EU), successfully organised the Pitching Event for the ExpoScaleUp program at the Ramada Hotel in Colombo.

Supported under the European Union’s regional initiative ‘Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS)’ as part of the EU Global Gateway Strategy, this milestone event is a key component of the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative (SLEEI) 2025.

The ExpoScaleUp program is designed to enhance the export readiness of Sri Lankan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by offering specialised training in market research, branding, logistics, and the development of robust export marketing plans. The program culminated in this dynamic pitching event, where 25 high-potential SMEs presented their strategic export plans to a panel of investors, trade experts, and development partners.

In his opening remarks, EDB Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe highlighted the pivotal role of SMEs in driving economic growth and emphasised the need to equip them to compete in the global marketplace. He also extended gratitude to the European Union and IFC for their continued support in empowering Sri Lankan SMEs.

Speaking at the event, IFC Manager, Country Advisory and Economics South Asia Gregory Smith reaffirmed IFC’s dedication to empowering Sri Lanka’s SMEs, highlighting their vital role in driving economic growth and innovation. He remarked that with SMEs being the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economy, empowering them with access to trade opportunities, and capacity building is key to unlocking their potential. Strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives such as this can help strengthen the country’s export landscape, positioning SMEs to compete effectively in the global market while contributing to long-term economic sustainability.

Delegation of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Head of Cooperation Dr. Johann Hesse emphasised that by empowering local SMEs, the EU is strengthening Sri Lanka’s integration into regional and global markets, contributing to resilient, future-ready partnerships with EU businesses abroad. This support is closely aligned with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy, which promotes deeper connectivity between the EU and Sri Lanka and helps companies to align with EU market standards and green transition goals.

Selected SMEs will receive further support through the upcoming ExpoConnect program, which will focus on market access, trade facilitation, and strategic matchmaking with international buyers.

The participating SMEs spanned diverse sectors including processed foods and beverages, coconut-based products, spices and herbal cosmetics, ICT/BPO services, and handicrafts.

The event concluded with an award ceremony recognising the companies who pitched the most effective marketing plans.

The ExpoScaleUp Pitching Event underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to nurturing a resilient and globally competitive SME sector. Through targeted initiatives and international collaboration, the SLEEI 2025 is paving the way for sustainable economic growth and expanded global market presence for Sri Lankan businesses.

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