Celebrating over three decades of service and support to grow microfinance customers across the island, HNB revived its annual trade fair and exhibition for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), ‘The Gami Pubuduwa Pola 2023’. Organized by HNB to showcase up-and-coming businesses in its portfolio, the fair trade returns after a two-year hiatus following the disruptions brought on by the pandemic and the economic crisis.
Jonathan Alles, Managing Director and CEO, HNB, graced the event as the Chief Guest at the ceremonial opening of the trade fair, accompanied by Guests of Honour, M. S. K Dharmawardena, Director R e g i o n a l D e v e l o p m e n t Department, CBSL; Vasanthi Wijerathna, Ministry of Finance, Project Director-SMELoC together with Dilshan Rodrigo, Executive Director/COO, HNB; Damith Pallewatte, Deputy General Manager, Wholesale Banking Group, HNB; Vinodh F e r n a n d o , H e a d o f Microfinance, HNB as well as the Corporate and Senior management of the bank.
“I am thrilled to share the success of the recently concluded annual Gami Pubuduwa Pola 2023, where we showcased the incredible achievements of our micro-finance customers. Over the past 34 years, we have remained committed to supporting businesses at the grassroots through the many challenges we have faced over the past two years. This event is a testament to our unwavering dedication to their growth and development.
“The initiative is a platform for our microfinance customers to shine. It was truly inspiring to witness the diverse range of businesses that have flourished with our support. From agriculture to handicrafts, retail to services, our microfinance customers have displayed remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and hard work. We are grateful for their trust in us and are committed to continuing our support, tailored to their unique needs. We believe that uplifting small businesses at the grassroots are crucial to reviving the economy and creating sustainable growth,” Jonathan Alles, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, HNB, said.
Drawing on its experience of more than three decades, the Bank successfully supported over 473 microfinance customers to achieve SME status over the past two years.
Vinod Fernando, Head of Microfinance, HNB said, “Our experience in the microfinance segment has given us a unique perspective and a strong connection to the grassroots of Sri Lanka. We understand the challenges and opportunities our micro-finance customers face, and we have been offering customized financial solutions. The Gami Pubuduwa Pola 2023 celebrated their resilience and perseverance, and we are proud t o p lay a r ole i n t heir achievements.”
Jonathan Alles, MD/CEO, HNB (centre right); Vasanthi Wijerathna, Ministry of Finance, Project Director- SMELoC (centre) and M. S. K Dharmawardena, Director Regional Development Department, CBSL (centre left) at the ceremonial opening of the trade fair.
