Tuesday Sep 02, 2025
Tuesday Sep 02, 2025
Friday, 22 August 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Island Market continues to support numerous small home-based business ventures adversely affected by the pandemic and economic crisis.
The next Island Market will take place on 27 September from 11.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. at the Town Hall outdoor car park.
It not only serves as an event but also functions as an initiative dedicated to empowering local entrepreneurs, small businesses, creators, and makers by providing a platform to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers.
Of particular significance is the initiative’s focus on encouraging and empowering female home-based vendors, as well as extending support to individuals facing physical challenges, visual or hearing impairments, or other special needs. By creating an inclusive platform for participation, the Island Market acknowledges the limited opportunities available to these talented individuals and seeks to bridge the gap.
Over the past several years, the initiative has successfully supported numerous small vendors and facilitated connections with larger retail chains such as ODEL, which has generously offered store space within its malls. Many small businesses have continued to gain confidence through the market, leading to the expansion of operations and the establishment of independent physical stores. Eg: Sticks & Co., Cafe Longdon, etc. Additionally, the Island Market has extended support to several charitable organisations, including the Swashakthi Foundation of Persons with Disability, Child Action Lanka, VOICE, Free to Flow, water relief projects, and Light a Future.
The initiative has also been invited on numerous occasions by the Overseas School of Colombo to educate and inspire students on how the platform assists small home-based businesses in realising their goals, while also contributing to the development of entrepreneurial skills.
The Island Market is collaborating with Child Action Lanka (CAL) to create awareness of the wide range of charitable activities undertaken by the organisation. CAL works across Sri Lanka to support children in overcoming challenges such as poverty, lack of education, poor nutrition, and unsafe environments. Its vision is to build a Sri Lanka where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead, irrespective of circumstances.
Event highlights:
The Island Market together with Masterclass.lk presents another special event. Masterclass.lk, founded by Israh Latiff, is Sri Lanka’s hub for creative events, parties, and workshops that transform everyday moments into unique experiences. Known for its playful and innovative ideas, the organisation will host Sri Lanka’s largest picnic at the Island Market Pop-Up, featuring leading bakers from across the island along with food, entertainment, and outdoor activities.
