Assetline Finance launches initiative to improve financial literacy of SMEs

Some of the participants with Assetline officers

Assetline Finance Limited, a leading non-banking financial institution, inaugurated a timely initiative titled ‘Deshayata Jawayak’ centered around enhancing financial literacy among small and medium-scale entrepreneurs. More than 100 SMEs from the Southern Province participated in this programme, the first of a series, which was held at the DPMC Auditorium in Kamburugamuwa, Matara.

The resource person, Chaminda Kumarasiri, a veteran SME Trainer, Senior Chartered Accountant, Chairman and Senior Consultant - HCP Consulting (Private) Limited and Chairman of Asia Pacific Finance and Entrepreneurs Development Institute; highlighted the importance of nurturing and ensuring a strong network of small and medium-scale entrepreneurs, as they are the backbone of the economy. 

During this programme, Kumarasiri spoke about financial literacy & management, best industry practices, use of technology to increase efficiency, assessing new business avenues, importance of establishing a brand name for a product, effective utilization, management and maintaining debt facilities, etc. 

The small & medium scale entrepreneurs were presented with the opportunity to discuss the varied challenges they are facing in the current economic backdrop with Kumarasiri, during a highly interactive question and answer session. Some of the participants voluntarily shared their success stories while elaborating on the milestones, challenges and strategies of their respective businesses.  

The high level of engagement by the participants and their positive feedback stand testament to the success of the programme. Whilst all participants were a recipient of a ‘certificate of participation’, a raffle draw added to the event.   The highlight of the event was the active participation of over 50 ambitious female entrepreneurs thirsty for knowledge and insights to take their business to the next level despite many bottlenecks.    

Ajantha Premasiri, Chief Marketing Officer, Assetline Finance Limited said; “As a leading and responsible player in the non-bank financial institution sector in Sri Lanka, Assetline Finance has always strived to support small and medium scale enterprises. Going one step further, we have recently introduced Assetline ‘LIya Diriya’ an exclusive financial solution designed to ensure financial inclusion and empowerment of women.”