DFCC Bank and The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Centre for SMEs Partner to Accelerate National SME Growth
May 12, 2025
DFCC Bank has announced a strategic partnership with The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Centre for SMEs, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s small and medium enterprise (SME) sector. This collaboration combines financial expertise with sectoral knowledge to equip entrepreneurs with the tools, guidance, and access necessary for sustainable growth.
The partnership will support five SME Transformation and Market Access Programmes across the country. These initiatives are designed to address real-world business challenges by delivering export readiness training, financial literacy sessions, dedicated advisory services, and direct engagement with policymakers and industry leaders. The programme aims to provide SMEs with the strategic support required to thrive in a competitive and evolving economic environment.
Thimal Perera, CEO of DFCC Bank, stated, “SMEs form the backbone of the national economy, and their holistic progress directly influences economic resilience and employment. It is therefore essential that these businesses receive practical guidance, access to markets, and strong networks to move forward, in addition to financial assistance. This partnership with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Centre for SMEs is a deliberate effort to integrate financial solutions with targeted developmental support, creating meaningful value for entrepreneurs and reinforcing the foundation of Sri Lanka’s SME sector over the long term.”
As part of the broader initiative, DFCC Bank will offer tailored consultancy services to up to 20 selected SMEs, assisting them in addressing structural, operational, and growth-related challenges. In addition, five regional business development workshops will be conducted in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Centre for SMEs, extending outreach and support to regions beyond the urban economic hubs.
The programme will also include a four-episode YouTube series focused on SME and export sector development. Featuring DFCC Bank’s SME-centric banking solutions and highlighting entrepreneurial success stories, the series will provide both visibility and insight for aspiring and growth-stage businesses.
Given the link between limited SME growth and constrained national economic progress, this initiative comes at a critical juncture. By aligning financial innovation with capacity-building, DFCC Bank and The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Centre for SMEs are helping to build a more inclusive, competitive, and resilient business landscape for Sri Lanka.
Photo Credits
L – R (Yasura Samarakoon – Head of Canter of SME Unit (The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce), Shamindra Mercelline – Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DFCC Bank PLC), Bhuwaneka Perera – Chief Executive Officer (The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce), Thimal Perera – Director/Chief Executive Officer (DFCC Bank PLC), Aasiri Iddamalgoda – SVP – Head of Retail & Business Banking (DFCC Bank PLC), Pradeep De Alwis – Head of Business Banking (DFCC Bank PLC), Koushall Vian – Assistant Manager – (DFCC Bank PLC)
About DFCC Bank
DFCC Bank PLC, established in 1955 and listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange since 1956, is one of Sri Lanka’s leading financial institutions. Regulated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and rated A (lka) by Fitch Ratings, the Bank offers a comprehensive portfolio of retail, corporate, and SME banking services, along with treasury, investment, and trade finance solutions.
With customer centricity and sustainable innovation at its core, DFCC Bank delivers seamless and secure banking experiences, which include digital platforms like DFCC MySpace, and through a network of 138 branches and access to over 5,500 ATMs via the LankaPay network.
A recognised leader in sustainable finance and renewable energy initiatives, DFCC Bank is committed to reducing environmental impact and fostering long-term economic resilience.
About The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1839, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is Sri Lanka’s premier business Chamber, serving as a leading voice for the private sector. With a strong focus on policy advocacy, market access, and business facilitation, the Chamber represents a diverse membership base spanning industry, promoting sustainable economic growth and international trade. Through strategic initiatives, research, and collaboration, the Chamber supports businesses in navigating challenges, fostering innovation, and driving long-term competitiveness.
