LIIN, WUSC host first-ever investor pitch event marking a significant milestone in advancing women-led entrepreneurship in Northern Sri Lanka, with a focus on strengthening business resilience, investment readiness, and inclusive economic growth.
LIIN, WUSC host first-ever investor pitch event empowering women
The Growth, Resilience, Investment and Training – Entrepreneurship Development Training Program (GRIT-EDTP) recently concluded its inaugural pitch competition at Jetwing Jaffna, bringing together emerging entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts in a collaborative platform designed to support scalable and sustainable enterprises. The initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by the Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) in partnership with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), has been instrumental in equipping entrepreneurs across the Northern Province with the tools required to transition into investment-ready businesses.
Over a period of ten months, participants underwent structured training, mentorship, and tailored business development support aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities and strategic direction. The pitch competition served as the culmination of this process, offering ten shortlisted entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their ventures before a panel of judges and investors. This format not only tested their business acumen but also provided real-time feedback critical for growth.
The LIIN, WUSC host first-ever investor pitch event highlighted a diverse range of enterprises spanning food processing, agro-based industries, coir production, and handicrafts. Many of these ventures demonstrated strong alignment with sustainable practices and community-driven development, reinforcing the importance of women-led businesses in fostering regional economic resilience. The event also underscored the broader role of such initiatives in strengthening Sri Lanka entrepreneurship development, particularly in post-conflict regions where access to capital and mentorship remains limited.
A distinguished panel of judges evaluated the pitches, including representatives from industry, academia, and public institutions. Their assessments focused on innovation, scalability, financial viability, and social impact. In parallel, a group of investors and financial experts provided insights into market trends, funding strategies, and operational efficiencies, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the investment landscape.
The competition’s top honour was awarded to Pallueir Ltd., a Jaffna-based enterprise established in 2022, recognised for its innovative approach to millet-based food production. By sourcing raw materials directly from local farmers who follow traditional and sustainable agricultural practices, the company produces a range of nutritious, value-added products for both domestic and export markets. Its operations not only promote healthier consumption patterns but also support rural livelihoods, particularly among women. The enterprise received seed capital of Rs. 600,000 to further scale its operations, reflecting the growing emphasis on women entrepreneurs Sri Lanka as key contributors to inclusive growth.
The runner-up position was secured by Uma Products, a Mannar-based business specialising in natural food and wellness products. Led by entrepreneur Uma Maheshwari, the enterprise focuses on chemical-free, locally sourced offerings such as herbal powders, dried fruits, and oils. The business model integrates traditional health practices with modern market demands, earning it a seed capital award of Rs. 450,000.
Third place was awarded to Mathi Mixture from Mullaitivu, which produces a variety of snack products including mixtures, cassava chips, and fried chickpeas. The enterprise has built a strong local supply chain by sourcing raw materials from farmers while generating employment opportunities for women and youth. It received Rs. 350,000 in seed funding.
Nutri Food Packers, an agro-processing business based in Jaffna, secured fourth place for its focus on dehydrated natural food products using hygienic processing techniques. The enterprise emphasises value addition and sustainable sourcing, receiving Rs. 250,000 in seed capital. Kavitha Palmyrah Products and Exports, a Mannar-based venture producing traditional palmyrah-based food products and handicrafts, was awarded fifth place along with Rs. 150,000, recognising its contribution to preserving indigenous practices and supporting rural communities.
Beyond the competition outcomes, the LIIN, WUSC host first-ever investor pitch event demonstrated the potential of structured entrepreneurship programs to create meaningful economic impact. By combining training, mentorship, and access to finance, the GRIT-EDTP initiative has helped bridge critical gaps in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly for women-led enterprises in underserved regions.
The program’s broader objective of empowering 340 entrepreneurs in the Northern Province reflects a long-term commitment to building resilient local economies. As these businesses scale and integrate into larger value chains, they are expected to contribute to employment generation, income diversification, and regional development.
Industry observers note that such initiatives are increasingly vital in Sri Lanka’s evolving economic landscape, where inclusive growth and innovation are key priorities. By fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs equipped with practical skills and market insights, programs like GRIT-EDTP are laying the foundation for sustainable economic progress.