EDB, IFC and European Union Launch Third ExpoScaleUp Cohort to Boost Sri Lanka’s SME Export Competitiveness
Colombo: The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and with the support of the European Union (EU), has launched the third cohort of the ExpoScaleUp programme, reinforcing efforts to enhance the export competitiveness of Sri Lankan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in international markets. The initiative is supported under the Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS) programme.
The four-day intensive training programme brings together 25 high-potential SMEs from across Sri Lanka, equipping them with the knowledge and practical tools required to develop market-focused Export Marketing Plans. Participants will receive hands-on guidance from an internationally recognised export marketing specialist from the Netherlands, supported by a team of trained EDB coaches.
ExpoScaleUp forms a key pillar of the Sri Lanka Export Excellence Initiative (SLEEI), a collaborative programme implemented by the EDB, IFC and the European Union to strengthen the export readiness, market access and long-term sustainability of Sri Lankan SMEs. The initiative aims to build a pipeline of globally competitive exporters capable of expanding into new international markets.
Since its launch in January 2025, ExpoScaleUp has successfully completed two cohorts, supporting 50 SMEs. The programme has already delivered tangible results, including helping five companies secure their first export orders, while 38 businesses have obtained internationally recognised certifications, participated in overseas trade fairs and gained valuable international market exposure.
Speaking at the inauguration, Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the EDB, highlighted the importance of targeted capacity-building initiatives in transforming export-potential businesses into successful global exporters. He noted that structured training, strategic planning and international market exposure are essential to strengthening Sri Lanka’s export ecosystem and creating sustainable growth opportunities for SMEs.
Participants in the third cohort will develop customised Export Marketing Plans tailored to their products, target markets and business objectives. Upon successful completion of the programme, eligible SMEs will also have access to ExpoConnect, a specialised platform designed to facilitate international business development, strategic partnerships and connections with overseas buyers.
Through this continued collaboration, the EDB, IFC and the European Union aim to accelerate the growth of export-ready Sri Lankan enterprises while supporting the country’s ambition of achieving US$36 billion in export earnings by 2030. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation, resilience and sustainable export-led economic growth through the development of globally competitive SMEs.