The Sri Lanka 2030 and Beyond Economic Summit and Entrepreneurial Awards, held on 5th March at Shangri-La Colombo, was a landmark event celebrating the resilience, innovation and ambition of Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial community. Organised by the Chamber of Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE), the event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and rising entrepreneurs to discuss the nation’s economic future and recognise outstanding business achievements.
At the heart of the summit was COYLE’s unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem. With a membership of over 100 leading entrepreneurs representing more than 500 companies, COYLE plays a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s economic landscape. Its members directly employ over 500,000 individuals and indirectly support 2.5 million livelihoods, reinforcing the profound impact of entrepreneurship on national development.
The summit featured a high-profile panel discussion with distinguished industry figures, including:
Mr. Janik Jayasuriya, Co-Founder, Celeste
Mr. Ravindu Thilakawardhene, Director, Thilakawardhene Textiles
Mr. Nikitha Grero, Director, Lyceum International Schools
Mr. Vivek Jayasuriya, Entrepreneur
Mr. Dinesh Saparamadu, Chairman, hSenid Group
Mr. H.K. Wegapitiya, Chairman, Laugfs Holdings
Mr. Dasantha Fonseka, Managing Director, Vision Care
Mr. Rasith Wickramasinghe, Executive Director, CBL Foods
These industry experts shared insights on navigating challenges, seizing emerging opportunities and the role of innovation in driving long-term success. The discussions highlighted the importance of digital transformation, investment in education and ethical business practices – core values that align seamlessly with COYLE’s mission.
The event also recognised outstanding businesses through the Young Lankan Entrepreneurs Awards, celebrating those who have demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation and leadership:
Extra Large Category – Gold Award: Three Sinha Industries Pvt Ltd.
Large Category – Gold Award: Sensa Solutions Lanka Pvt Ltd.
Medium Category – Gold Award: Neil Fernando & Co. Pvt Ltd.
Small Category – Gold Award: Abhi Skin Clinic
Start-up Category – Gold Award: AGC Innovative Pvt Ltd.
These awards underscore COYLE’s dedication to empowering businesses and fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive. Through initiatives such as the Alliance of Lankan Entrepreneurial Chambers (ALEC) and the Entrepreneur Development Centre, COYLE continues to drive policy advocacy, leadership training and innovation in Sri Lanka’s business community.
As Sri Lanka looks towards 2030 and beyond, COYLE remains steadfast in its mission to uplift entrepreneurs, create sustainable economic growth, and build a globally competitive business landscape.
