Student Agribusiness Ventures Receive Financial and Mentorship Support through BOC Partnership

The faculty successfully conducted a student venture evaluation and funding program in collaboration with the Agricultural Banking Unit of the Bank of Ceylon (BOC) on 11 June 2026, providing a valuable opportunity for aspiring student entrepreneurs to secure financial and professional support for their business ventures.

A total of 11 students enrolled in the Agribusiness Venture Creation course presented their innovative business ideas before a distinguished evaluation panel comprising Mr. Samantha Wimalasiri, Assistant General Manager, Consumer and Development Banking, Bank of Ceylon; Mr. Wasantha, Senior Manager, Consumer and Development Banking, Bank of Ceylon; and the Managers and Credit Officers of the BOC Balangoda and Pambahinna Branches.

The student ventures were evaluated based on their innovation, feasibility, market potential, and sustainability. Following the presentations, all 11 ventures were approved for financial assistance under a special entrepreneurship development scheme offering loans of up to LKR 500,000 at a concessional annual interest rate of 4%. In addition to financial support, students will receive mentorship and advisory services to assist them in establishing and growing their enterprises successfully.

The Faculty extends its sincere appreciation to the Bank of Ceylon team for their invaluable support and commitment to nurturing the next generation of agribusiness entrepreneurs. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in strengthening university-industry partnerships and creating pathways for students to contribute to economic and community development through entrepreneurship.