WCIC and USAID join to empower Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) partnered with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to help female entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka to access new markets and financial services through the launch of an upgraded website.

The upgraded website was unveiled at the WCIC Women’s Leadership Forum held on March 14, 2024. This platform now features a customised online marketplace exclusive for women-led businesses to promote their businesses and a dedicated banking portal, tailored to meet the financial needs of women entrepreneurs.

”We know that when women are economically empowered, they invest in their businesses, families, and communities, producing a multiplier effect that spurs economic growth. That is why the United States invests in partnerships such as this, fostering an environment conducive to women’s business success and recognizing their vital role in economic growth and innovation,” said Julie Ota, Acting Deputy Mission Director, USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives.

Anoji De Silva, Chairperson of WCIC, emphasised the instrumental role played by likeminded organizations such as USAID in fostering sustainable growth. “USAID has been a steadfast supporter of WCIC, providing invaluable assistance across various initiatives,” said De Silva, highlighting the pivotal collaboration that culminated in the relaunch of the website during the Women’s Leadership Forum.

The upgraded WCIC website aligns with the theme of the 2024 International Women’s Day, “Inspire Inclusion.” The introduction of the two new features a marketplace for women entrepreneurs and a banking portal will facilitate greater economic participation and development among women in Sri Lanka. Currently, 60 women-led small and medium enterprises (WSMES) are enrolled on the website, with an expectation of at least 150 new WMSMES joining the WCIC platform.