Cultivating Agricultural Entrepreneurs in Micro–Enterprise Development – Sri Lanka

Overview

Cultivating Agricultural Entrepreneurs in Micro–Enterprise Development is a community-based initiative supported by the HOPE International Development Agency to uplift marginalized families in the Galle District and beyond. The project promotes sustainable livelihoods through agriculture and animal husbandry by equipping low-income households—especially women and youth—with entrepreneurship training, technical skills, exposure visits, and access to a revolving loan fund by facilitating cluster formation, strengthening market linkages, and providing ongoing mentoring, the initiative nurtures self-reliance, economic resilience, and inclusive rural development.

Why This Makes a Difference

Rural communities in southern Sri Lanka continue to face challenges such as limited access to finance, unstable incomes, and a lack of technical skills in modern agriculture. This project empowers marginalized families to break free from the cycle of poverty by transforming subsistence farming into sustainable agribusiness ventures. Through capacity building, financial inclusion, and community collaboration, beneficiaries can secure stable livelihoods while contributing to local economic growth.

Impact That Counts (By 2025)

• Families Uplifted: 10 low-income families in Rathgama DSD supported to develop sustainable agriculture-based micro-enterprises

• Skills & Training: Beneficiaries equipped with entrepreneurship, livestock management, and value addition skills

• Economic Empowerment: Improved income, savings, and living standards among targeted rural households

• Community Development: Formation of producer clusters and strengthened market linkages for long-term sustainability

• Inclusive Growth: Women and youth encouraged to take leadership roles in enterprise and community initiatives

  
  

To cultivate a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs who drive rural transformation through innovation, self-employment, and sustainable livelihoods—building resilient and prosperous communities across southern Sri Lanka.