To recognize and celebrate entrepreneurial excellence in the region, the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), in collaboration with the Matale District Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (MDCCIA), successfully hosted the “Central Province Entrepreneur Awards 2025” lastrday (28) at the Golden Crown Hotel, Kandy.
“Central Province Entrepreneur Awards -2025”
The Chief Guest, Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, addressed the gathering, stating that the unwavering resilience of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs—who remained steadfast through the Tsunami, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent economic crisis—is the true foundation of the national economy. The Minister also revealed several strategic measures taken by the government to eliminate practical barriers faced by businesses.
Accordingly, the Minister announced that a staggering LKR 87 billion has been allocated for entrepreneurial loan facilities in 2026. To resolve the persistent issue of land scarcity for industries, he confirmed that instructions have been issued to District and Divisional Secretaries to establish a ‘Land Bank’. Furthermore, he guaranteed the swift establishment of a digitized ‘One-Stop Center’ to streamline permit approvals, ensuring a process free from bribery and political interference.
A total of 55 entrepreneurs representing the Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya districts were honored across multiple sectors. Highlighting the importance of self-reliance, the Minister proposed the introduction of a new award category for the coming year: “Best Import Substitution Industry,” to specifically reward businesses that contribute to saving foreign exchange for the country.
The prestigious ceremony was attended by the Governor of the Central Province, Sarath Abeykoon; Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Gamagedara Dissanayake, along with high-ranking officials from both the public and private sectors and members of the business community.
