HNB joins as Principal Sponsor of Northern Investment Summit 2026 to boost growth in North

Thursday, 6 November 2025 05:48 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

HNB Managing Director/CEO Damith Pallewatte handing over the sponsorship to TMC President Roger Talayaratna. TMC Project Chair Indra K. Rajapaksa also present

HNB Managing Director/CEO Damith Pallewatte

HNB PLC has joined hands with The Management Club (TMC) as the Principal Sponsor and Official Banking Partner of the Northern Investment Summit 2026 (NIS26). The initiative, set to take place in Jaffna in January, is aimed at accelerating investment, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth in the Northern Province.

HNB Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Damith Pallewatte highlighted the bank’s proud presence in Jaffna for over 53 years and its legacy of more than 135 years in Sri Lanka. He emphasised that HNB upholds its leadership in empowering enterprise and nurturing sustainability. Pallewatte further noted that savings entrusted to HNB in the Northern Province have reached approximately Rs. 130 billion, while the bank’s lending portfolio now stands at around Rs. 60 billion. He added that repayment performance in the region remains strong, reflecting the discipline and resilience of local entrepreneurs.

“The Northern Province is emerging as one of the most promising frontiers of growth in Sri Lanka. Encouraging regional development and prosperity is central to securing the country’s long-term recovery. In recent years, the North has evolved into a hub for enterprise, renewable energy, and value-added agriculture, supported by strong public-private partnerships,” Pallewatte said.

He added that HNB views financial inclusion as the bridge between national policy and real economic opportunity. “By expanding access to capital and empowering entrepreneurs, we aim to ensure that the North’s growth story contributes to a more balanced and resilient national economy,” he stated.

Through its involvement at NIS26, HNB will collaborate with Government agencies, investors, and development partners to promote entrepreneurship, investment readiness, and sustainable regional development. The summit will bring together senior policymakers, diplomats, and business leaders for policy dialogues, project showcases, and partnership discussions. It will also see the launch of the Northern Investment Opportunities Report, a comprehensive guide to projects aimed at attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

The partnership highlights HNB’s ongoing commitment to expanding financial access and promoting equitable growth across Sri Lanka. Through inclusive and transformative financial solutions, HNB remains dedicated to driving sustainable national development and uplifting communities island-wide.

- Pix by Sameera Wijesinghe