HNB PLC, Sri Lanka’s leading private sector bank, has announced its partnership with the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) as the official Banking Partner of their innovative Ramp Up 24 event.
Held at Hilton Colombo, this collaboration marks a significant step in supporting women entrepreneurs and promoting export-ready local brands. The Ramp Up 24 initiative, designed to empower women-led and women-owned MSME businesses, will showcase products from emerging women entrepreneurs.
“Our partnership with WCIC for the Ramp Up 24 initiative reflects HNB’s dedicated commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting their journey toward building sustainable businesses. By helping provide these talented entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their products, we’re not just supporting individual businesses – we’re contributing to the broader goal of economic empowerment and export market development,” said HNB Head of SME Products & Partnerships, N. Kethiswaran.
The event will feature a unique collaboration between established designers and emerging entrepreneurs, focusing on refining colour palettes and enhancing product quality. Proceeds from the event will support the Special Entrepreneur Fund and WCIC Academy, both dedicated to fostering women’s entrepreneurship development.
“The Ramp Up 24 event represents a crucial stepping stone for women entrepreneurs looking to establish their presence in the mainstream fashion industry. Through this initiative, we’re not just showcasing products – we’re creating opportunities for sustainable business growth and export market entry. HNB’s support significantly enhances our ability to make this vision a reality,” said WCIC, Co-Chairperson Ramp Up Organizing Committee Ashanti Fernando.
About HNB:
With 254 customer centres, HNB stands as one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most technologically innovative private banks. Having been recognized as the Best bank and Best SME bank in Sri Lanka by Euro Money, Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for the 14th consecutive year at the Asian Banker Global Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2024, HNB continues to solidify its reputation in the sector. Additionally, the bank was also declared as ‘The Best Bank – Sri Lanka’ at the second Emerging Asia Banking Conclave and Awards, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC). HNB was also honored with prestigious awards, including Best Market Leader in Trade Financial Services at the renowned Euromoney Awards for Excellence in 2024, highlighting its excellence in service, market leadership, and commitment to sustainable banking practices.
About WCIC:
The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC), established in 1985, is the world’s first women’s chamber and a pioneering not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering women in business. For 39 years, WCIC has been at the forefront of promoting women’s entrepreneurship and professional development in Sri Lanka.