HNB Accelerates Sri Lanka’s Digital Growth with Tailored Solutions for ICT Entrepreneurs

January, 29, 2025

Sri Lanka's largest private retail bank, HNB PLC, is offering an exclusive set of benefits for aspiring and established entrepreneurs in the ICT sector. Whether starting a new venture or expanding an existing business, HNB's specialized services provide essential support for success. With an unwavering commitment to nurturing Sri Lanka's ICT landscape, HNB has designed financial solutions that cater to both capital expenditure and working capital needs for businesses in the ICT sector. These solutions include facilities without collateral requirements, ensuring greater accessibility for entrepreneurs. To date, HNB has extended over Rs. 350 million in support to ICT businesses, reinforcing its dedication to empowering innovation and driving the nation’s digital economy forward.

HNB is offering a range of attractive benefits for business owners in the ICT sector. These include no joining fee for business cards for directors along with discounts and other offers. Additionally, business owners receive two free airport lounge accesses per year for each business card, special exchange rates for export proceeds, and the ability to open business foreign currency accounts at any HNB branch. Furthermore, HNB offers free onboarding to its Transaction Banking (HNB TxB) platform, waiving the standard onboarding charge of Rs. 5,000, which provides ICT entrepreneurs with streamlined digital trade services. HNB also provides access to refinance facilities, if available.

The U.S. Agency for International Development CATALYZE Private Sector Development Activity was instrumental in the conceptualization and launch of this financial product tailored for MSMEs in the ICT sector. By gathering insights from industry experts and partners, PSD identified key challenges faced by tech companies in accessing financing. In response, USAID CATALYZE PSD collaborated with ICTA and partner banks to create an ICT-specific credit scoring framework, provide training, and develop a pipeline of potential MSMEs ready to benefit from these offerings. This initiative bridges critical gaps and ensures the financial ecosystem is better aligned with the unique needs of ICT entrepreneurs.

"The ICT sector represents a pivotal force in Sri Lanka's economic advancement, and HNB has strategically positioned itself to facilitate this transformation," said HNB Chief Operating Officer Sanjay Wijemanne. "Our approach transcends conventional banking parameters, offering a sophisticated suite of financial solutions designed specifically for technology enterprises. Through this comprehensive framework, we are enabling Sri Lankan ICT companies to strengthen their market position and establish a commanding presence in the global digital economy."

For businesses looking to invest in infrastructure and assets, HNB offers capital expenditure loans with a loan quantum of up to Rs. 10 million, a repayment period of up to 36 months, and an interest rate of 8% p.a. These loans provide the necessary financial support to help ICT businesses grow and scale.

"The Federation of Information Technology (Guarantee) Ltd represents the premier industry association for the ICT sector, with member companies spanning across all areas of this vital industry," said Indika De Zoysa, Chairman of FITIS. "We collaborate closely with the Government to achieve the ambitious goal of expanding Sri Lanka’s national digital economy to USD 15 billion by 2030. HNB’s new initiative provides much-needed financial assistance on highly favorable terms, addressing key challenges faced by our member companies. This initiative will not only help the ICT sector grow but also generate significant foreign revenue. I am confident that HNB’s support will serve as a catalyst in achieving our shared vision of a USD 15 billion digital economy."

For businesses requiring loans exceeding Rs. 10 million, HNB offers financing at concessionary rates compared to the published rates, providing essential capital for businesses seeking to scale their operations further. Repayment terms are tailored to meet the specific requirements of each customer, ensuring flexibility and convenience. Additionally, HNB offers a specialized export credit facility designed to support export business partners. This facility is based on the strength of export agreements, the reliability of buyers, and the capacity of businesses to deliver and fulfill orders. With loans provided at competitive rates, this initiative offers a valuable advantage for businesses looking to expand their footprint in international markets.

HNB PLC is one of Sri Lanka's largest and most innovative private retail banks, providing a wide range of financial services to its customers. With over 250 branches and 800+ self-service terminals nationwide, HNB has established a strong presence across Sri Lanka. The bank is committed to excellence in customer service, operational efficiency, and innovative solutions, with a particular focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. HNB has consistently been recognized for its contributions to the financial sector and has received numerous accolades for its leadership and performance.

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A Crisis If Economy Does Not Grow – Sujeewa Mudalige & Talal Rafi

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