Telco and banking leaders partner to empower SMEs

From left: Sameer Valki – Co-founder & CEO of GlobalLinker, Viranga Seneviratne - Head of ICT and Platform Business at Dialog Axiata PLC, Prabath Perera - Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Databox Technologies and Sivasubramaniam  Ganeshan - Assistant General Manager of Personal Banking III/SME at Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC

In a landmark move to drive digital transformation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Dialog Enterprise, the corporate ICT solutions arm of Dialog Axiata PLC., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, GlobalLinker, and Databox Technologies, on “Commercial Bank LEAP GlobalLinker”, a web solution designed to empower entrepreneurs through digital marketing and e-commerce.

Dialog Enterprise joins forces with Commercial Bank as the technology partner for their e-commerce platform, Commercial Bank LEAP GlobalLinker, mobilizing the digital marketing sphere of SMEs in Sri Lanka. Together with GlobalLinker, a B2B business networking platform with commerce capabilities to make SME’s business digitally discoverable, and Databox Technologies, the managed service provider that ensures seamless integration and technical support, the partnership aims to set a new standard in the digital marketplace for SMEs in Sri Lanka.

Through this initiative, digital marketing and e-commerce facilities would be provided, enabling entrepreneurs to create their own e-stores, connect with each other, and engage in buying and selling locally and internationally. 

This network hub is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of SMEs, providing them with the tools and support necessary to thrive in the digital economy. By leveraging the reach of the GlobalLinker platform, the endeavour aims to empower SMEs already on the platform, as well as new entrants, with advanced communication and digital technologies to further enhance their business capabilities.

Navin Pieris, Group Chief Officer of Dialog Enterprise said, “We are thrilled to partner with such innovative, dedicated, and like-minded companies, working towards a common cause. This solution is a testament to our commitment to driving digital transformation and providing SMEs with the technology they need to compete and succeed in today’s digital landscape.”

Sivasubramaniam Ganeshan, Assistant General Manager Personal Banking III / SME of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, echoed the same exclaiming that: “This partnership is a significant step forward in empowering small and medium entrepreneurs. By creating a comprehensive digital marketplace, we are not only providing business loans but also enabling a robust ecosystem where SMEs can flourish. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this collaboration will have on the entrepreneurial community.”

Under the terms of the MoU, Dialog Enterprise will leverage its technological expertise to support the platform’s infrastructure, while Commercial Bank will spearhead market creation and onboarding of entrepreneurs. Entrusted with e-store creation, GlobalLinker will ensure the platform’s development and technical robustness, and Databox Technologies will provide managed services, with payment gateway integration, and ongoing technical know-how.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in the digital transformation journey for SMEs, offering them a powerful, user-friendly platform to expand their reach and grow their businesses.