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October 29, 2026

Sri Lanka Joins Orange Movement, Opens Access to $500m Funding Pool By 2030

At the Orange Economy Summit 2026, IIX CEO Prof. Durreen Shahnaz pledged to reach 1.2 million Sri Lankan women and their families by 2030, highlighting the importance of inclusive participation in achieving national economic growth. IIX will work with the CSE to strengthen the Orange Bond infrastructure, while LIIN Chairman Chandula Abeywickrema highlighted high borrowing costs of up to 30% as a major barrier for micro-entrepreneurs and CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike emphasised that investing in women's potential is investing in the future of Sri Lanka's economy.

October 8, 2026

Chandula Abeywickrema Joins Global Impact Investing Leaders

Chandula Abeywickrema, Founder and Chairman of GSG Impact Sri Lanka and the Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN), represented Sri Lanka at the GSG Impact Global Leadership Meeting held in Amsterdam from September 15-17, 2026. Hosted by the Netherlands Advisory Board on Impact Investing at the Park Inn by Radisson Amsterdam City West, the three-day event gathered impact investing leaders from over 50 countries to address capital mobilization, policy, and market transformation within the global impact economy. Leveraging his 40-year career in finance and social entrepreneurship, Abeywickrema met with GSG Impact Chair Sir Ronald Cohen and regional leaders to reinforce Sri Lanka’s position-a network member since becoming its 39th National Partner five years ago and to continue driving international impact capital toward local entrepreneurs solving social and environmental challenges.

June 22, 2026

LIIN Empowers Northern Women Entrepreneurs through Emerging Women Summit

More than 200 participants, including over 150 women entrepreneurs from across the Northern Province, gathered at ReeCha Park and Resort for the Emerging Women Summit, organized by the LIIN under the GRIT Project with funding from GAC and implemented in partnership with the WUSC. Held under the theme "Unlocking Markets and Capital for Women Entrepreneurs in Northern Province", the Summit brought together entrepreneurs, government agencies, financial institutions, academia, and private sector representatives to strengthen women-led enterprises through improved access to finance, markets, networks, and business development opportunities. Key highlights included expert panel discussions on financing and market access, a vibrant marketplace featuring over 40 women-led businesses, and an Entrepreneurs Fashion Ramp showcasing products from more than 25 entrepreneurs. The event created valuable networking and market linkage opportunities while reaffirming the commitment of LIIN and its partners to continue supporting women entrepreneurs across Northern Sri Lanka through capacity building, access to finance, and expanded market opportunities, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient regional economy.

May 14, 2026

LIIN and LAN Sign Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Sri Lanka's Startup Ecosystem

The Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) and the Lankan Angel Network (LAN) have signed an MoU to strengthen Sri Lanka's startup and innovation ecosystem. Through this strategic partnership, both organizations will collaborate to support entrepreneurs and impact-driven ventures by connecting angel investment opportunities with sustainable innovation, creating new opportunities for founders, investors, and the broader entrepreneurial community.

April 21, 2026

LIIN, WUSC Host First-ever Investor Pitch Event for Entrepreneurs

The GRIT-EDTP successfully concluded its first cohort pitch competition at Jetwing Jaffna, marking a key milestone in empowering women-led enterprises in Northern Sri Lanka. Funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by LIIN in partnership with WUSC, the program supported entrepreneurs through 10 months of training, mentorship, and business development to enhance resilience and investment readiness. The pitch event featured 10 entrepreneurs presenting innovative, impact-driven businesses across sectors such as food processing, handicrafts, and agro-industry to a panel of judges, investors, and industry experts. Pallueir Ltd. emerged as the winner, followed by Uma Products, Mathi Mixture, Nutri Food Packers, and Kavitha Palmyrah Products and Exports, with winners receiving seed capital to scale their ventures. The initiative highlights the growing focus on strengthening women-led businesses and fostering inclusive, sustainable economic growth in the Northern Province.

February 18, 2026

LIIN Hosts Sri Lanka's First-ever Impact Investment Summit 2026 with Multilateral Partners

Sri Lanka marked a pivotal step in its sustainable finance journey with the successful convening of the Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026, hosted by the LIIN and GSG Impact Sri Lanka, with Global Affairs Canada as anchor partner through WUSC and in collaboration with FAO, UNDP, GIZ Sri Lanka, and the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs. As the country's first dedicated national platform on impact investing, the Summit brought together over 180 policymakers, investors, development partners, and ecosystem leaders from Sri Lanka and beyond to align private capital with national priorities such as SME growth, climate resilience, gender inclusion, and long-term economic recovery. Through high-level dialogue and strategic direction, the Summit laid the foundation for positioning Sri Lanka as an emerging regional hub for impact investment, while advancing concrete pathways to translate dialogue into deployable, impact-driven capital.

February 11, 2026

Inaugural Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 Kicks Off

Sri Lanka hosted the inaugural Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 (LIIS) in Colombo, convening over 200 local and international delegates to position the country as a regional hub for impact investing in South Asia. Organized by LIIN and the Global Steering Group for Impact Investment Sri Lanka, the summit focused on mobilizing private capital to address structural financing gaps affecting SMEs, climate initiatives, and women-led enterprises. Amid high borrowing costs and limited non-bank financing channels, discussions highlighted the need for "Entrepreneur Transformation" and scalable, equity-style funding solutions. The event also marked plans to launch Sri Lanka's first $5 Million Impact Enterprise Fund with UNDP support, targeting underserved SMEs, while advancing a broader declaration to strengthen inclusive and sustainable investment across the region.

January 26, 2026

Global Impact-Investing Expert Robert Webster to Lead Executive Immersion Program in Sri Lanka

Global impact-investing expert Robert Webster to lead Executive Immersion Program ahead of Lanka Impact Investing Forum

October 27, 2025

LIIN Catalyses Next Wave of Impact Investment in Sri Lanka

On October 22, 2025, the Lanka Impact Investment Network (LIIN) announced several landmark initiatives marking a transformative moment for Sri Lanka's economy and impact investment ecosystem, including the release of the country's first-ever impact investment landscape study, the establishment of the first Social Entrepreneurial Fund (SEF), the launch of the reality TV series On Eagle's Wings, and the announcement of Sri Lanka's inaugural Impact Investment Summit to be held on February 12, 2026; shared at a Colombo event with partners and stakeholders, the study-developed with WUSC and funded by the Government of Canada - highlights collaborative efforts to attract new forms of capital and position Sri Lanka as a credible destination for impact investors.

September 2, 2025

LIIN Partners with Northern Chamber of Industries to Strengthen Women Entrepreneurship

Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) and the Northern Chamber of Industries (NCI) have entered into a strategic partnership to empower women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka's Northern Province by strengthening a gender-responsive entrepreneurial ecosystem; this collaboration under the GRIT program's Empower Pengal initiative will provide women-led enterprises with access to critical knowledge, practical business skills, market linkages, and investment opportunities, enabling them to attract private equity, scale their ventures, and contribute to inclusive economic growth in the region.

July 2, 2025

LIIN and Good Market Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen MSMEs

The Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) and Good Market have entered into a strategic partnership, formalised through an MoU signed on 14 June in Colombo, to accelerate the growth of impact-driven MSMEs in Sri Lanka. The collaboration introduces two key initiatives-the Social Enterprise Fund (SEF) and the Investment Readiness Program-aimed at identifying, supporting, and scaling enterprises with strong social and environmental impact. By combining access to capital, capacity-building, and ecosystem support, the partnership seeks to help high-potential businesses become investment-ready and grow sustainably, reinforcing a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient economy.

June 27, 2025

DFCC Bank-LIIN Expand Equity-based Financing for SMEs

DFCC Bank PLC has partnered with the Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) to connect high-potential SMEs with equity-based funding through the Social Enterprise Fund (SEF), Sri Lanka's first dedicated impact investment fund. The collaboration supports DFCC Bank's commitment to responsible and inclusive banking by enabling SMEs with strong social or environmental impact to access growth capital without increasing their debt burden. Under the agreement, DFCC Bank and LIIN will identify and prepare eligible enterprises for investment, with LIIN providing technical expertise and investment readiness support.

May 16, 2025

University of Vavuniya and LIIN Partner to Nurture Women Entrepreneurs in Northern Province

LIIN and the UOV have entered into a strategic partnership to strengthen women's entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka's Northern Province, recognizing its potential to drive inclusive economic growth and employment. Formalized through an MoU, the collaboration aims to build a gender-responsive entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing women entrepreneurs with tailored training, mentoring, investment readiness support, and access to markets and capital. By combining UOV's academic expertise, facilities, and community outreach with LIIN's impact investing, capacity-building, and private-sector linkages, the initiative seeks to enhance business viability, scalability, and sustainability, while advancing the GRIT "Empower Pengal" program to support long-term socio-economic development in the region.

February 24, 2025

LIIN Launches GRIT, an Entrepreneur Development Program and HNB-LIIN Innovation & Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB for MSMEs in Jaffna

LIIN launched the GRIT "Empower Pengal" Program and the HNB-LIIN Innovation & Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB in Jaffna on February 14, 2025, marking a major milestone in strengthening entrepreneurship in Northern Sri Lanka. Funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented with the World University Service of Canada, the initiative focuses on empowering MSMEs-particularly women-led enterprises-through skills development, investment readiness, access to finance, mentorship, and market linkages. By fostering innovation and inclusive growth, the program aims to generate employment, boost local production and exports, attract investment, and build a more resilient and sustainable regional economy.

September 10, 2024

'Climate Challenge SL' Invites Data Professionals to First-ever Hackathon

The support from the USAID Climate Adaptation Project and in partnership with the Climate Collective Foundation, the LIIN launched Sri Lanka's first-ever data hackathon, the "Climate Challenge Hackathon - Creative Data Solutions for Resilience." The youth-focused initiative invites data professionals from across the country to develop innovative, data-driven solutions to address climate change impacts in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, while encouraging broader youth engagement in climate action.

August 22, 2024

Introducing "On Eagle's Wings": a Reality Television Program Aimed at Transforming Sri Lanka's SME Landscape

The support from USAID, the LIIN launched the "On Eagle's Wings" Program on August 15, 2024, a 32-episode reality TV initiative aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship and driving inclusive economic growth in Sri Lanka. Targeting over 400 impact enterprises and 2,000 entrepreneurs, the program provides mentorship, research and innovation resources, and access to capital, including support for climate-adaptive businesses. Emphasizing gender inclusion, it ensures 50% participation from women-led SMEs, helping bridge financing gaps and empower women entrepreneurs. By fostering innovation across sectors like agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and trade, the program seeks to strengthen SMEs, promote climate resilience, and drive sustainable regional development.

July 1, 2024

Stakeholder Workshops Conducted to Identify Climate Related Issues in Agriculture and Fisheries

The LIIN and CCF of India, with funding from the USAID Climate Adaptation Project, have launched the "Data4Climate" Hackathon to promote climate-smart solutions for Sri Lanka's agriculture and fisheries sectors. This first-ever climate data hackathon will bring together 20 selected teams to develop innovative, data-driven solutions using real-world data, guided by industry experts and practitioners. The initiative is informed by stakeholder consultation workshops held across Colombo, Kandy, Batticaloa, and Jaffna, ensuring that the hackathon addresses priority challenges identified by private sector actors, government agencies, academia, and civil society to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience nationwide.

April 19, 2024

Eastern Province youth entrepreneurs empowered through 'Revamp Sri Lanka Youth Start-Up Challenge 1.0'

The 'Revamp Sri Lanka Youth Start-Up Challenge 1.0', organized by the LIIN in collaboration with ICBT Campus, was successfully held on 4 April in Batticaloa, showcasing the innovation and entrepreneurial potential of youth in Sri Lanka's Eastern Province. The initiative provided young entrepreneurs with a platform to develop and refine start-up ideas through mentorship, networking, and exposure to industry leaders and investors. Featuring innovative solutions across sectors such as agriculture, tourism, exports, and education, the challenge bridged the gap between ideas and execution, with the top five teams advancing to the final round.

April 8, 2024

Fostering a Gender-Responsive Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Sri Lanka's Northern Region through the GRIT Initiative

LIIN has launched the six-year GRIT project, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented with the WUSC, to build a gender-responsive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sri Lanka's Northern Province. Marked by major launch events in Colombo and Jaffna, the initiative brings together women entrepreneurs, ecosystem stakeholders, and business support partners to create sustainable pathways for inclusive socio-economic growth, with a strong focus on young women. Through collaborations with local and global partners, the project aims to foster innovation, build skills, and expand impact investment opportunities, empowering women-led enterprises to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the regional economy.

February 26, 2024

AFC and LIIN Pioneer New Wave of Impact Investing in Sri Lanka

AFC has partnered with the NABIISL, under the LIIN, to support SMEs through equity investments via the Social Enterprise Fund (SEF), marking a major milestone in Sri Lanka's impact investing ecosystem. As a pioneer in sustainable finance, AFC integrates ESG principles across its operations, dedicating 76% of its portfolio to initiatives aligned with 12 UN SDGs, while providing financial, social, and environmental value. The partnership builds on AFC's earlier support for social entrepreneurship through the TV program 'Ath Pavura' and reinforces LIIN's mission to channel private capital toward impactful enterprises. Together, AFC and LIIN aim to strengthen the country's impact investing landscape, expand access to private equity for SMEs, and promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

February 7, 2024

HNB and LIIN partner to create access to private equity for SMEs

The National Advisory Board for Impact Investing in Sri Lanka (NABIISL), under the LIIN, has partnered with HNB to support SMEs through equity investments via the Social Enterprise Fund (SEF), advancing Sri Lanka's impact investing ecosystem. The collaboration leverages HNB's SME network and LIIN's expertise to identify, prepare, and accelerate social enterprises, while also building on initiatives like the 'Ath Pavura' TV show to empower social entrepreneurs. By providing capital, mentorship, and technical support, the partnership aims to drive sustainable economic growth, generate measurable social and environmental impact, and attract responsible local and foreign investment aligned with national development goals.

January 17, 2024

Lanka Impact Investing Network and ICBT launch Youth Startup Challenge 1.0

LIIN and ICBT Campus have formalized a landmark MoU to launch the REVAMP Sri Lanka initiative, aimed at empowering youth entrepreneurship across the country. The partnership connects young innovators with industry leaders, mentors, and investors, fostering an inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem. Unveiled alongside the REVAMP Sri Lanka Youth Startup Challenge 1.0 and supported by the Government of Canada through WUSC, the initiative seeks to cultivate innovation, provide mentorship and resources, and strengthen the next generation of business leaders, contributing to Sri Lanka's economic growth and a resilient entrepreneurial landscape.

June 19, 2023

Breaking barriers, inspiring success: LIIN, WUSC, and GAC's mentoring program uplifts women, youth, and differently-abled Entrepreneurs

LIIN successfully inaugurated the mentoring and training program for the Southern Province Cohort under the Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (PIE) project, supported by WUSC and Global Affairs Canada. Designed to empower women, youth, and differently-abled entrepreneurs, the program commenced at Sanmira Renaissance Hotel, Unawatuna, with MSME expert Suranjith Swaris leading the session. Entrepreneurs representing diverse businesses - from natural fabrics and handicrafts to food products and plant-based ventures - engaged in one-on-one mentoring and needs assessments, laying the foundation for tailored guidance, capacity-building, and growth-oriented support.

May 23, 2023

Global Steering Group for Impact Investing sets its footprint in Sri Lanka

The GSG has established its presence in Sri Lanka with the launch of the country's first National Advisory Board (NAB) for Impact Investing, operational from 3 May, to facilitate the flow of global impact capital and sustainable finance into the country. As the GSG's network partner in Sri Lanka, the NAB aims to support impact enterprises and sustainability-driven businesses by aligning local investment practices with global sustainability agendas. This milestone opens new opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, strengthening inclusive economic growth, delivering social and environmental benefits, and positioning Sri Lanka as an emerging destination for responsible and impact-focused investments.

March 23, 2023

LIIN and WUSC Launch Awakasha.net, a Digital Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship

LIIN launched Awakasha.net on 21 March 2023, a digital platform under the Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (PIE) project, powered by WUSC and Global Affairs Canada, to support underserved entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. Designed to empower women, youth, differently-abled persons, and war-affected communities, the platform offers training, mentorship, market access, and financial linkages to help entrepreneurs grow sustainable businesses. Launched at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo, the initiative showcased regional entrepreneurial forums and success stories, reinforcing LIIN's commitment to fostering an inclusive, impact-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives socio-economic growth across the country.

September 12, 2022

Development and Mentoring of Women, Youth and Differently-abled Entrepreneurship in Batticaloa

LIIN, in partnership with the WUSC and the Government of Canada, conducted a Regional Entrepreneurship Development Program and Forum in Batticaloa on 27 August, targeting women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The initiative focused on supporting underserved entrepreneurs through capacity-building and digital market access, including curated training in partnership with the Daraz. As part of LIIN's Inclusive Entrepreneurship approach, the program aims to expand entrepreneurial opportunities beyond the Western Province by connecting selected participants from regional forums to a forthcoming one-stop digital hub that will provide mentorship, market access, financial linkages, and business support services.

September 10, 2022

LIIN and WUSC Host Kurunegala Phase of Their Regional Entrepreneurship Development Forum Series

LIIN, together with the WUSC and the Government of Canada, held the fifth phase of its Regional Entrepreneurship Development Forum Series in Kurunegala on 6 September, targeting women, youth, and differently-abled entrepreneurs in the North Western Province. Hosted at the Kurunegala Industrial Services Bureau with over 120 participants, the forum focused on digital marketing and practical business guidance to help entrepreneurs navigate the current economic climate. As part of LIIN's Inclusive Entrepreneurship initiative, the program aims to expand entrepreneurial culture beyond the Western Province, with over 270 MSMEs engaged so far and selected participants to gain access to a forthcoming digital hub offering mentorship, market access, financial linkages, and business support services.

May 5, 2022

Social entrepreneurs Pitch to Impact Investors at the British Council Social Enterprise Development Competition

The British Council, in partnership with Chrysalis and Care Germany and funded by the European Union, concluded its four-and-a-half-year "Support for Integrated Rural Development Enterprise" programme aimed at improving livelihoods in rural and estate communities across Uva and Central Provinces. Supporting 55 social entrepreneurs in sectors such as agriculture, handicrafts, dairy, apparel, and food processing, the project culminated in the "Samaja Viwasaya Diriya" pitching competition and awards ceremony held with the LIIN in Colombo. The event recognized 12 outstanding entrepreneurs, with the top three receiving cash awards and securing Rs. 3 million in pledged impact investments, highlighting the importance of building a strong ecosystem to scale social enterprises and drive inclusive economic development in Sri Lanka.

April 19, 2022

Daraz Partners with LIIN to Empower Local SMEs and Women Entrepreneurs

Daraz Sri Lanka has partnered with the LIIN to conduct island wide workshops aimed at upskilling SMEs and integrating them into the e-commerce ecosystem by enabling them to become sellers on the Daraz platform. The initiative, launched with a focus on women entrepreneurs in the Southern Province, provides hands-on training on seller registration, verification, product marketing, and digital selling, helping SMEs access wider markets in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. Through this collaboration and initiatives such as "Daraz Arya Shakthi", the programme seeks to empower women-led businesses, promote digital inclusion, and support SME growth, while aligning with LIIN's mission to strengthen inclusive entrepreneurship and impact-driven economic development in Sri Lanka.

November 22, 2021

LIIN and WUSC to build a Storytelling Digital Platform for Rural Entrepreneurs

LIIN has partnered with WUSC to implement a two-year project creating a digital storytelling and mentoring platform for micro, small, and medium-level entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka. Targeting underserved entrepreneurs - particularly women, persons with disabilities, social entrepreneurs, and those from war-affected regions - the platform will showcase business stories, serve as a digital business profile, and connect entrepreneurs with volunteer mentors for guidance and expertise. Supported through WUSC's IGNI+E initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada, the project strengthens inclusive entrepreneurship by improving digital visibility, access to mentorship, and economic opportunities for marginalized entrepreneurs nationwide.

October 6, 2020

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce forms 'CCC Council for Startups'

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has established the CCC Council for Startups to strengthen Sri Lanka's startup ecosystem and support sustainable economic growth, with its inaugural meeting held on 28 September. Formed under the Chamber's National Agenda Committee on the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, the eight-member council brings together entrepreneurs, investors, accelerators, and ecosystem leaders to address key challenges faced by startups and SMEs. Chaired by BoV Capital Managing Partner Prajeeth Balasubramaniam, the council will be supported by the Chambers Centre for SMEs and Economic Intelligence Unit, providing business advisory services, market linkages, policy advocacy, and regulatory support to foster innovation, job creation, and long-term economic development.

June 10, 2020

Rise of Social/ Impact Entrepreneurs to Storm through the Social Revolution

Social entrepreneurship - also known as impact entrepreneurship - is gaining momentum globally as businesses increasingly prioritize social, environmental, and cultural impact alongside financial sustainability. While access to affordable capital remains a major barrier for social entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka, particularly due to the high cost of debt and limited availability of private equity, local success stories are steadily emerging. Supported by the LIIN through initiatives such as the Ath Pavura TV reality show, Sri Lankan social entrepreneurs are overcoming these challenges, scaling their enterprises with equity financing, and creating meaningful, measurable impact - demonstrating that impactful entrepreneurship is not limited to developed economies but is thriving locally as well.

December 18, 2019

'Sri Lanka can be a regional leader in social entrepreneurship and impact investing': LIIN Founder

In today's article marking Global Entrepreneurship Week 2019, veteran development banker and founder of the Lanka Impact Investing Network, Chandula Abeywickrama shares his thoughts on recent initiatives that have improved entrepreneurs' access to new sources of capital and his efforts to make Sri Lanka a regional hub for impact investment:

December 17, 2019

PwC's Startup Accelerator and LIIN to build a platform for new startups

PwC's Startup Accelerator and the LIIN have partnered through a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen and disrupt Sri Lanka's startup ecosystem by jointly guiding, mentoring, and funding high-potential startups with a strong focus on social innovation and sustainability. The collaboration combines PwC's expertise in business modelling, valuations, investor pitching, and advisory services with LIIN's experience in impact investing and startup funding, enabling entrepreneurs to scale locally and internationally. This strategic partnership aims to build a resilient, investment-ready startup network capable of driving innovation, attracting capital, and contributing meaningfully to Sri Lanka's economic growth.

November 4, 2019

LIIN partners with CEM with the aim of uplifting Creating Shared Value

LIIN has partnered with the CEM of Nanyang Business School, Singapore, to collaborate on advancing thought leadership around sustainable business models in Asia. Under this partnership, LIIN and CEM will jointly contribute to CEM's annual survey and produce the first regional report on "Pioneering Creating Shared Value (CSV) in ASEAN and South Asia," examining how businesses integrate social impact into value creation. Covering eight ASEAN and four South Asian countries, the initiative will highlight key sectors, challenges, and policy implications, reinforcing LIIN's commitment to promoting impact-driven entrepreneurship and sustainable growth in Sri Lanka and the wider region.

September 4, 2019

The Social Impact Investors looking to transform Sri Lanka

Ath Pavura is Sri Lanka's pioneering reality TV show dedicated to social entrepreneurship and impact investing, created as a nurturing alternative to predatory formats like Shark Tank and Dragons' Den. Co-founded by Chandula Abeywickrema of LIIN, the show positions investors as "Tuskers" who mentor and support entrepreneurs, reflecting its ethos of validation, guidance, and shared success. Since its debut, Ath Pavura has become the country's top-rated business program, receiving over 2,000 applications in its first season and channeling private equity into 50 social enterprises, thereby emerging as the only national platform providing MSME social entrepreneurs with access to impact-focused private equity while inspiring millions to pursue purpose-driven business.

June 7, 2019

AI + BI + CI x DI = Empowering, Enriching and Impacting Society and Environmental Wellbeing

In an era defined by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and rapid technological change driven by innovations such as artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems and digital connectivity, concerns around society's wellbeing and sustainability are increasingly prominent. Against this backdrop, the reflection of a former commercial banker turned social entrepreneur and impact investor highlights a keen interest in understanding both the positive and negative implications of AI on society, acknowledging its transformative role in daily life, business and the public sphere while questioning how these advances can be guided to ensure inclusive, responsible and socially beneficial outcomes.

June 7, 2019

Creation of an Ecosystem for every Sri Lankan to be Responsible and Accountable for Building Sri Lanka

The article calls for a fundamental shift from divisive, leader-centric and identity-based power structures towards a society rooted in interdependence, shared responsibility and inclusive economic value creation. Drawing on Sri Lanka's lived experience of ethnic conflict, economic fragility and failed leadership, the writer argues that exploiting ethnic, religious or cultural divisions undermines long-term social cohesion and economic sustainability, highlighting instead the importance of diverse yet interconnected value chains. Using Rwanda's post-genocide transformation as a powerful example, the piece urges Sri Lankan leaders and citizens alike to move beyond passive roles, embrace accountability, and actively collaborate to address social, economic and environmental challenges, fostering a unified national identity focused on innovation, resilience and collective progress.

March 30, 2019

Female Leadership in Social Entrepreneurship and Impact Investing

LIIN, Sri Lanka's first impact investing company, hosted the Emerging Women's Summit (EWS) on 10 April 2019 at Hatch Colombo to amplify female leadership in social entrepreneurship and impact investing. The summit created a collaborative platform for women entrepreneurs and investors to connect, share inspiring success stories, and build mentoring and investment networks, while aligning discussions with key UN Sustainable Development Goals including Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequalities, and Partnerships for the Goals. Supported by main sponsors Sampath Bank and Hatch, with partners LSV, Selanka and Good Market, the event marked a significant step toward strengthening women's participation in Sri Lanka's impact ecosystem, with future EWS events planned for Jaffna and Kandy and the launch of dedicated female mentor and investor networking platforms.

October 26, 2018

Sri Lanka Launches First Social Impact Funds

Sri Lanka marked a milestone in impact investing with the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding in New York to launch the country's first social impact funds - a USD 5 million Social Enterprise Fund (SEF) and a USD 20 million Social Impact Capital Fund (SICF) - aimed at financing social entrepreneurs and advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The agreements, signed by Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN), Tempest PE Partners, and UNDP during the 73rd UN General Assembly, will mobilize private capital to support MSMEs through innovative financing, mentorship, and capacity building, with UNDP overseeing impact measurement to ensure strong alignment with the SDGs and meaningful social and environmental outcomes.

October 12, 2018

LIIN CAL and UNDP Partnership for the Creation First Social Impact Funds in Sri Lanka

For the first time, Sri Lanka showcased a landmark private-sector initiative at the UN General Assembly in New York, led by Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN), Capital Alliance Holdings (CAL), and UNDP, highlighting innovative business models aligned with the SDGs. The event featured the signing of two pioneering social impact funds - the USD 5 million Social Enterprise Fund (SEF) for micro, small, and medium social entrepreneurs, and the USD 20 million Social Impact Capital Fund (SICF) for inclusive businesses integrating social impact - facilitated by LIIN and Tempest PE Partners in collaboration with UNDP, with high-level dignitaries including Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister and UNDP officials witnessing the ceremony.

May 18, 2018

LIIN, WUSC and UNDP to Host First 'Impact Investor Residential Program'

Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN), in partnership with WUSC and UNDP, hosted its first two-day residential program for 30 prominent Sri Lankan investors to deepen their understanding of impact investing. Moderated by LIIN Chairman and Ath Pavura Co-Founder Chandula Abeywickrema, the program featured global experts Dr. Edward Jackson, Jim Delaney, and David Galipeau, and covered impact investing strategies, innovative business models, and impact measurement. This initiative builds on Ath Pavura's success, where Tuskers have invested nearly Rs. 50 million across 44 social entrepreneurs, further advancing Sri Lanka's impact investing ecosystem.

January 18, 2018

Chandula to Speak on Impact Investing in Ottawa International Forum

Chandula Abeywickrema, Chairman of Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) and Co-Founder of Ath Pavura, was invited by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) to speak on "Impact Investing for Entrepreneur Empowerment - the Asian Solution for Economic Revolution" at the seventh annual International Forum in Ottawa (19-20 January 2018). Bringing his extensive experience in commercial banking, financial inclusion, and impact investing, Chandula joined government delegates, civil society actors, private sector representatives, and international development experts to share insights, explore innovative solutions, and contribute to advancing global development and economic empowerment.

January 8, 2018

People's Leasing Partners LIIN and WUSC to Empower Rural Youth through 'U IMPACT' Vocational Training

U IMPACT, a pioneering youth empowerment initiative by LIIN, was launched to address the growing gap between education and employability faced by nearly 475,000 Sri Lankan youth each year who do not progress to university or skilled employment. The pilot program, launched in Hambantota District in partnership with People's Leasing and Finance Plc (PLC), World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the Kawantissa Vocational Training Centre, focuses on vocational training and skills development through corporate collaboration. Under this initiative, three underprivileged youth are being supported with one-year training in automobile mechanics, including financial assistance, apprenticeships, and potential job placement, marking a sustainable model for private-sector-led youth empowerment and workforce development.

News & Insights

Latest News

Sri Lanka Joins Orange Movement, Opens Access to $500m Funding Pool By 2030

Chandula Abeywickrema Joins Global Impact Investing Leaders

LIIN Empowers Northern Women Entrepreneurs through Emerging Women Summit

LIIN and LAN Sign Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Sri Lanka's Startup Ecosystem

LIIN, WUSC Host First-ever Investor Pitch Event for Entrepreneurs

LIIN Hosts Sri Lanka's First-ever Impact Investment Summit 2026 with Multilateral Partners

Inaugural Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 Kicks Off

Global Impact-Investing Expert Robert Webster to Lead Executive Immersion Program in Sri Lanka

LIIN Catalyses Next Wave of Impact Investment in Sri Lanka

LIIN Partners with Northern Chamber of Industries to Strengthen Women Entrepreneurship

LIIN and Good Market Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen MSMEs

DFCC Bank-LIIN Expand Equity-based Financing for SMEs

University of Vavuniya and LIIN Partner to Nurture Women Entrepreneurs in Northern Province

LIIN Launches GRIT, an Entrepreneur Development Program and HNB-LIIN Innovation &amp; Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB for MSMEs in Jaffna

'Climate Challenge SL' Invites Data Professionals to First-ever Hackathon

Introducing "On Eagle's Wings": a Reality Television Program Aimed at Transforming Sri Lanka's SME Landscape

Stakeholder Workshops Conducted to Identify Climate Related Issues in Agriculture and Fisheries

Eastern Province youth entrepreneurs empowered through 'Revamp Sri Lanka Youth Start-Up Challenge 1.0'

Fostering a Gender-Responsive Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Sri Lanka's Northern Region through the GRIT Initiative

AFC and LIIN Pioneer New Wave of Impact Investing in Sri Lanka

HNB and LIIN partner to create access to private equity for SMEs

Lanka Impact Investing Network and ICBT launch Youth Startup Challenge 1.0

Breaking barriers, inspiring success: LIIN, WUSC, and GAC's mentoring program uplifts women, youth, and differently-abled Entrepreneurs

Global Steering Group for Impact Investing sets its footprint in Sri Lanka

LIIN and WUSC Launch Awakasha.net, a Digital Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Development and Mentoring of Women, Youth and Differently-abled Entrepreneurship in Batticaloa

LIIN and WUSC Host Kurunegala Phase of Their Regional Entrepreneurship Development Forum Series

Social entrepreneurs Pitch to Impact Investors at the British Council Social Enterprise Development Competition

Daraz Partners with LIIN to Empower Local SMEs and Women Entrepreneurs

LIIN and WUSC to build a Storytelling Digital Platform for Rural Entrepreneurs

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce forms 'CCC Council for Startups'

Rise of Social/ Impact Entrepreneurs to Storm through the Social Revolution

'Sri Lanka can be a regional leader in social entrepreneurship and impact investing': LIIN Founder

PwC's Startup Accelerator and LIIN to build a platform for new startups

LIIN partners with CEM with the aim of uplifting Creating Shared Value

The Social Impact Investors looking to transform Sri Lanka

AI + BI + CI x DI = Empowering, Enriching and Impacting Society and Environmental Wellbeing

Creation of an Ecosystem for every Sri Lankan to be Responsible and Accountable for Building Sri Lanka

Female Leadership in Social Entrepreneurship and Impact Investing

Sri Lanka Launches First Social Impact Funds

LIIN CAL and UNDP Partnership for the Creation First Social Impact Funds in Sri Lanka

LIIN, WUSC and UNDP to Host First 'Impact Investor Residential Program'

Chandula to Speak on Impact Investing in Ottawa International Forum

People's Leasing Partners LIIN and WUSC to Empower Rural Youth through 'U IMPACT' Vocational Training

News & Insights

Latest News

Sri Lanka Joins Orange Movement, Opens Access to $500m Funding Pool By 2030

Chandula Abeywickrema Joins Global Impact Investing Leaders

LIIN Empowers Northern Women Entrepreneurs through Emerging Women Summit

LIIN and LAN Sign Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Sri Lanka's Startup Ecosystem

LIIN, WUSC Host First-ever Investor Pitch Event for Entrepreneurs

LIIN Hosts Sri Lanka's First-ever Impact Investment Summit 2026 with Multilateral Partners

Inaugural Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 Kicks Off

Global Impact-Investing Expert Robert Webster to Lead Executive Immersion Program in Sri Lanka

LIIN Catalyses Next Wave of Impact Investment in Sri Lanka

LIIN Partners with Northern Chamber of Industries to Strengthen Women Entrepreneurship

LIIN and Good Market Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen MSMEs

DFCC Bank-LIIN Expand Equity-based Financing for SMEs

University of Vavuniya and LIIN Partner to Nurture Women Entrepreneurs in Northern Province

LIIN Launches GRIT, an Entrepreneur Development Program and HNB-LIIN Innovation &amp; Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB for MSMEs in Jaffna

'Climate Challenge SL' Invites Data Professionals to First-ever Hackathon

Introducing "On Eagle's Wings": a Reality Television Program Aimed at Transforming Sri Lanka's SME Landscape

Stakeholder Workshops Conducted to Identify Climate Related Issues in Agriculture and Fisheries

Eastern Province youth entrepreneurs empowered through 'Revamp Sri Lanka Youth Start-Up Challenge 1.0'

Fostering a Gender-Responsive Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Sri Lanka's Northern Region through the GRIT Initiative

AFC and LIIN Pioneer New Wave of Impact Investing in Sri Lanka

HNB and LIIN partner to create access to private equity for SMEs

Lanka Impact Investing Network and ICBT launch Youth Startup Challenge 1.0

Breaking barriers, inspiring success: LIIN, WUSC, and GAC's mentoring program uplifts women, youth, and differently-abled Entrepreneurs

Global Steering Group for Impact Investing sets its footprint in Sri Lanka

LIIN and WUSC Launch Awakasha.net, a Digital Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Development and Mentoring of Women, Youth and Differently-abled Entrepreneurship in Batticaloa

LIIN and WUSC Host Kurunegala Phase of Their Regional Entrepreneurship Development Forum Series

Social entrepreneurs Pitch to Impact Investors at the British Council Social Enterprise Development Competition

Daraz Partners with LIIN to Empower Local SMEs and Women Entrepreneurs

LIIN and WUSC to build a Storytelling Digital Platform for Rural Entrepreneurs

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce forms 'CCC Council for Startups'

Rise of Social/ Impact Entrepreneurs to Storm through the Social Revolution

LIIN Launches GRIT, an Entrepreneur Development Program and HNB-LIIN Innovation & Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB for MSMEs in Jaffna

LIIN Launches GRIT, an Entrepreneur Development Program and HNB-LIIN Innovation & Impact Entrepreneurship Development HUB for MSMEs in Jaffna