Marking a significant milestone in its journey towards fostering sustainable development, SDB bank has announced a strategic partnership with the Institute for Rural Sustainable Development (IRSD). A leader in providing consultancy and support for sustainability initiatives targeting rural communities, IRSD joins forces with SDB bank to transform rural Sri Lanka through a comprehensive and impactful approach to sustainability.
Through this partnership, SDB Bank and IRSD will implement a comprehensive strategy that reflects their shared commitment to empowering rural communities and driving inclusive economic growth. The initiative will span key development areas, including the Cooperative and MSME sectors, community-based tourism, and women’s empowerment.
The partnership aligns perfectly with SDB bank’s broader vision of supporting sustainable development by addressing the unique needs of rural communities under the Rural Upliftment Program of the Bank. Collaboration with IRSD bolsters our expert knowledge and helps us in our mission to realize the untapped human, social, and economic potential of these communities. Working together, we aim to transform rural economies and elevate the living standards of our fellow Sri Lankans” said Mr. Kapila Ariyaratne, CEO/Executive Director of SDB bank.
Under this initiative, SDB bank will play a pivotal role in strengthening the cooperative sector, empowering rural communities by addressing their social, economic, and human development needs. Given their people-centered approach, cooperatives are expected to serve as key drivers of rural progress. Meanwhile, the initiative’s focus on MSME sector development will spur job creation, stimulate economic growth, and enhance resilience. By supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises, the partnership aims to establish a strong foundation for sustainable rural development.
IRSD, renowned for its expertise in community-based tourism, will leverage this knowledge to harness the unique cultural and natural assets of targeted regions. This approach will create new income opportunities for local communities while preserving their heritage and environment. Additionally, through this partnership, SDB bank will further its commitment to women’s empowerment by encouraging female participation in green agriculture, entrepreneurship, and business management. This emphasis underscores the vital role of women in driving sustainable and inclusive rural growth.
Since its inception, SDB bank has been widely recognized for its dedication to fostering long-term growth and prosperity at the foundational level. Continuously innovating to expand its reach, the bank has cemented its role as a catalyst for rural development. By forging partnerships with reputed organizations like IRSD, SDB bank reaffirms its mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of rural communities. This collaboration not only promises transformative change but also sets a benchmark for future efforts in sustainable development.
About SDB bank:
A future-ready bank, dedicated to offering customer-centric and comprehensive support tailored to each individual’s needs, SDB bank is a licensed specialized bank regulated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, with a listing on the Main Board of the Colombo Stock Exchange and a Fitch Rating of BB +(lka). Through the network of 94 branches island wide, the bank provides a comprehensive range of financial services to its Retail, SME, Co-operative, and Business Banking clients across the country. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are deeply ingrained in SDB Bank’s ethos, with a steadfast focus on uplifting local communities and businesses through sustainable practices. The bank is particularly committed to promoting women’s empowerment, sustainable development of SMEs, and digital inclusion, aiming to propel Sri Lanka to new heights.