ANURADHAPURA, Sri Lanka, August 4, 2025 (ePRESS) – UN Women and Chrysalis, in partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka, have opened a one-stop Business Service Centre (BSC) in Anuradhapura, aiming to boost women-led and youth-led businesses in rural areas.
The new centre was officially launched with the presence of Hon. Nimal Palihena, Member of Parliament for Anuradhapura. It is located inside the Anuradhapura District Secretariat and is designed to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which play a vital role in Sri Lanka’s economy.
The BSC will help entrepreneurs easily access government approvals, technical services, training, product development advice, and market links—all under one roof. It will also connect local business owners with universities, banks, regulatory bodies, and business chambers.
“This is a strong step toward removing the barriers that have long prevented women in rural areas from succeeding in business,” said Ashika Gunasena, CEO of Chrysalis. “The first BSC was launched in Monaragala in 2020, and today we continue that mission to ensure no woman is left behind.”
The BSC initiative was first approved by Sri Lanka’s Cabinet of Ministers in 2020 and is being supported by the Government. The Republic of Korea, a long-time partner of UN Women and Chrysalis, provided funding, infrastructure, and equipment to help set up the Anuradhapura centre.
Miyon Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka, said, “Empowering women through entrepreneurship is one of the most effective ways to drive sustainable development. The BSC in Anuradhapura is a powerful investment in inclusive growth and national progress.”
Ramaaya Salgado, Head of Office at UN Women Sri Lanka, added, “When women lead in business, families and communities grow stronger. This is not just a business initiative—it is about shaping a fairer economy that works for everyone.”
Sri Lanka’s MSME sector contributes 52% of the country’s GDP and employs more than 2.25 million people. The BSC is expected to be a key player in strengthening that contribution—especially from women and youth in rural communities.
