Caritas Sri Lanka, under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Luke Nelson Perera, National Director, continues its mission of empowering rural communities by providing targeted support to small-scale micro-business owners in Sri Lanka, aiming to reduce poverty across the country. This initiative has been made possible through the generous support of Caritas Slovenia, whose ongoing funding has enabled the successful implementation of the program in Sri Lanka. This partnership underscores the significance of international cooperation in promoting local economic growth and improving the livelihoods of vulnerable communities.

Sixteen micro-business owners were selected and received training on Micro Business Planning, which took place from March 19th to 21st, 2025, at “Kithu Dam Nikethanaya” in Anuradhapura. The three-day program brought together participants from the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Districts, providing them with essential knowledge to enhance their businesses and improve their livelihoods. The event began with a spiritually uplifting session led by Rev. Fr. Alec Roy, Diocesan Director of Caritas Anuradhapura. His blessings marked the official opening of the training, fostering unity and reflection among the participants.

The program was conducted by three expert resource persons: Mr. M.S. Balasooriya, Mr. G.M.C.S.K. Jayalath, and Mrs. Nilani Tissera, all certified CEFE (Competency-based Economies Through Formation of Entrepreneurs) trainers. Their collective expertise in business development and agricultural practices provided immense value to the participants.

The training program was comprehensive, covering essential aspects of entrepreneurial development and business planning. Key focus areas included:

  • Entrepreneurial Development: This session encouraged participants to adopt a proactive, growth-oriented mindset, helping them think creatively and strategically about their businesses.
  • Business Planning: Small-scale agribusiness holders often struggle with formal business planning. This component guided participants in developing clear, actionable business plans that addressed both short-term goals and long-term sustainability.
  • Financial Management: Understanding the financial health of a business is crucial. Participants were trained in managing cash flow, budgeting, and making informed financial decisions to ensure profitability.

By the end of the three-day training, participants left with valuable knowledge and skills they could immediately apply to develop their businesses. The program not only provided theoretical insights but also fostered practical skills in business management and sustainability, helping entrepreneurs build a foundation for long-term growth. Additionally, the opportunity to network with fellow small business owners created a sense of community and shared purpose. Participants gained inspiration from each other’s experiences and collaborated on finding solutions to common challenges.

Caritas Sri Lanka’s commitment to supporting rural communities through educational programs like this one reflects its dedication to creating long-lasting positive change. This training is part of a broader effort to promote self-reliance and provide opportunities for small-scale businesses to thrive.

The success of this training program marks a significant milestone, but it is only one part of Caritas Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to empower small-scale entrepreneurs. Future initiatives will continue to build on the foundation laid by this training, ensuring that business holders in Anuradhapura and other regions have access to the tools, resources, and networks they need to succeed. Most of the beneficiaries plan to expand their micro-businesses, while others aim to create new businesses.

In conclusion, the entrepreneurial development and business planning training program represents a vital step toward improving the livelihoods of small-scale business holders in the Anuradhapura Diocese. With the guidance of resource persons and the generous support from Slovenia, participants now have the knowledge and confidence to take their businesses to the next level and contribute to the overall growth of Sri Lanka’s small-scale business sector. After the training, each beneficiary was given 50,000 LKR to help expand their micro-businesses. His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Norbert Andradi OMI, Bishop of Anuradhapura, participated in the closing ceremony, distributing the financial support and delivering an inspirational speech to prospective entrepreneurs from the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Districts.