SLIM SME Development Awards 2024 concludes with resounding success

Celebrating Sri Lanka’s Pioneering SME Entrepreneurs with National Recognition

The SLIM SME Development Awards (SMEDA) 2024 concluded on a high note on April 28th at the Monarch Imperial, Colombo, recognizing the outstanding contributions of Sri Lanka’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs). Organized by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) in collaboration with the Asia Small Business Federation (ASBF) – Sri Lanka Chapter, the event showcased innovation, resilience, and marketing excellence across 14 key sectors.

Adding further prestige to the occasion, Hon. Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development and Member of Parliament, graced the celebration, reaffirming the government's continued support toward SME empowerment. Also present was Mr. Rohan Somawansa, a Past President of SLIM and the Advisor of ASBF Sri Lanka, whose presence underscored the importance of regional collaboration and knowledge-sharing in uplifting local enterprises. This year’s edition saw fierce competition among applicants, with a record number of entries submitted from multiple industry sectors across the island.

Prof. Dewasiri N. Jayantha, President of SLIM, emphasized the long-term vision behind SMEDA: “The SLIM SME Development Awards is more than a ceremony; it is a recognition of dreams pursued, obstacles overcome, and new heights reached. At SLIM, we have always believed that marketing excellence is a critical driver of SME growth. With insights from the research conducted by the SLIM Research Bureau, we identified a pressing need: to empower SMEs with the right marketing knowledge and an appreciation for branding, sales, and strategic communication. This awards programme is one of the many ways we are addressing that need. In addition to this, we are planning to support SMEs in their research needs and uplift their skill capabilities through a set of skill development programmes, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship and the Asia Small Business Federation, soon.”

Enoch Perera, Vice President – Events & Sustainability at SLIM, reinforced the purpose behind SMEDA, stating: “SMEDA 2024 is a platform where local MSMEs are nationally recognized. It’s also a celebration of Sri Lankan resilience and entrepreneurship. At SLIM, we’re committed to building lasting platforms that support SME growth beyond the stage. These businesses are the heartbeat of our economy, and through recognition, mentorship, and exposure, we aim to fuel their journey forward.”

Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke, Vice President – Education & Research at SLIM, added: “Our mission through SMEDA is to empower SMEs with both recognition and knowledge. Our evaluation process offered real value to participants through insights shared by the panel of judges. Going forward, SLIM will continue to introduce practical learning initiatives tailored for SMEs—because growth begins with insight. I invite all MSMEs to join hands with SLIM to uplift their business skills, knowledge, and competencies.”

Gayan Perera, President of the ASBF Sri Lanka Chapter, extended a warm invitation to the entrepreneurial community: “All winners and participants of SMEDA 2024 are invited to become members of the Asia Small Business Federation (ASBF). As members, you’ll gain access to a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, hands-on workshops, advanced training programs, and international collaboration opportunities. Our goal is to empower Sri Lankan SMEs to grow beyond borders—connecting them with global partners, investors, and knowledge hubs. This is just the beginning of a journey to transform local innovation into international success.”

Asanka Udayakumara, Project Chairperson of SMEDA 2024, remarked: “As the national body of marketing, we are honored to recognize the best SME entrepreneurs while fulfilling a national responsibility. This initiative not only sets new benchmarks for the sector but also motivates continued excellence. We’ve already planned more initiatives in collaboration with ASBF to support these businesses on their growth journey. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this event a success.”

Kumar Samarasinghe, Head of Jury SMEDA 2024, shared his thoughts on the rigorous selection process and the importance of the awards: “It was not an easy task to evaluate the applicants, as there was stiff competition among the entries. However, the best of the best were selected as winners, and I extend my heartfelt wishes to all of them. I am pleased to note that the winners represented almost every business category in the SME sector, showcasing the sector’s diversity and strength. I also extend my sincere gratitude to the members of the jury panel for their voluntary efforts, and to SLIM and ASBF for organizing this exceptional initiative.”

Image Caption : Professor Dewasiri N. Jayantha (President - Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing), Enoch Perera (Vice President - Events & Sustainability - SLIM), Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke (Vice President - Education & Research - SLIM), Gayan Perera (President - Asia Small Business Federation - Sri Lanka Chapter), Asanka Udayakumara (Project Chairperson - SME Development Awards 2024) Kumar Samarasinghe (Head of Jury  SMEDA 2024)