The Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with an international donor agency, has kicked off plans to implement a business matchmaking programme to help women-led businesses enter the UK market. 

The board this week called for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from local businesses that meet specific criteria, including being at least 25 percent women-owned and being registered with the EDB’s women-led export programme.  

Additionally, eligible businesses must have their own manufacturing or processing facilities with a minimum HACCP or ISO 22000 food safety certification, as required for the UK market.  Priority food product sectors for the programme include processed fruits and vegetables, coconut kernel-based products, vegan ready meals, spices, essential oils, oleoresins, food supplements and nutraceuticals. 
Other eligible sectors include household textiles, ladies’ wear, kids’ wear, recycled/upcycled garments, lifestyle products, giftware, toys and herbal cosmetics. 

Moreover, technology-based products and services are also invited to be part of the programme. Priority areas include agri-tech, e-commerce, retail, ed-tech, fintech, banking, health tech, tourism, travel tech, HR services and chem tech. 

An EDB panel will shortlist the eligible businesses, which will then be invited to participate in matchmaking sessions held in Sri Lanka. 
Applicants are to submit their EOIs via registered post to the EDB Regional Development Director, on or before July 22, 2024. (NR)