HNB PLC marked International Women’s Day 2026 with a powerful call to accelerate women-led enterprise in Sri Lanka. The programme, held 6^th of March at HNB Towers, brought together more than 300 women entrepreneurs, business leaders, development partners, academics and policymakers.

Addressing the audience, HNB, MD/CEO, Damith Pallewatte explained, “The global theme for International Women’s Day 2026, ‘Give to Gain,’ highlights a strategic approach embedded within HNB’s Corporate Strategy. When institutions invest in women through knowledge, respect, capital, and opportunity, the benefits ripple across households and industries, driving sustainable economic growth and long-term progress for the nation. By empowering women entrepreneurs, we also strengthen communities and enhance financial inclusion, while empowering innovation and resilience across Sri Lanka’s emerging businesses.”

The event brought together an impressive network of institutions including the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), Industrial Development Board (IDB), Small Enterprise Development Division (SED), Women’s Bureau, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), University of Kelaniya, Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs, Asiri Central Hospital, HNB Assurance, and B2.lk, along with many professionals and industry partners who collectively contribute to advancing women entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka.

“Sri Lanka presents a clear opportunity that we cannot afford to overlook. Our women achieve remarkable success in education and literacy, yet their participation in the workforce remains far below its true potential. At HNB, we believe entrepreneurship offers a powerful path to close this gap. When women build businesses they strengthen their families, uplift their communities, and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth. Through the HNB Women Banking Proposition we aim to provide the knowledge, financial access, and guidance that help women turn ambition into sustainable enterprise.” HNB, Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Priyanka Wijayarathne added.

The programme also served as a strategic engagement platform for HNB’s MSME segment and nationwide branch network, strengthening the Bank’s ability to deliver targeted financial solutions, advisory support, digital tools, and market access opportunities to women entrepreneurs. The initiative shows HNB’s broader business strategy, which places strong emphasis on empowering women-led enterprises, accelerating MSME growth, expanding financial inclusion, and promoting digital entrepreneurship as key drivers of sustainable economic development in Sri Lanka. The programme also included expert-led discussions on health awareness in collaboration with Asiri Central Hospital, as well as strategies for stress management and maintaining a healthy work-life integration, highlighting how strategic investment in women can create lasting progress for families, communities, and the national economy.

Market access also remains a core focus of HNB’s long-term efforts to empower entrepreneurs. While the programme coincided with International Women’s Day, the Bank emphasized that supporting women-led businesses is part of an ongoing strategy aligned with national economic priorities. Additionally, through the “HNB - Podi Podi Business” platform, women entrepreneurs receive dedicated space within HNB branches to showcase products and connect with new customers. The initiative was recently recognized as the Best Project by the Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce.

In line with International Women’s Day 2026, HNB builds on its proud legacy of leadership and innovation by advancing inclusive banking that opens new pathways for women entrepreneurs.

Image Caption - HNB celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 at HNB Towers