News Details

Women Empowerment Through Microfinance Program

The Department of Rural Development, in partnership with the Central Province Microfinance Company, is launching a special microfinance program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in rural communities.

Loan Facilities Available

1. Business Start-up Loans

  • Amount: Rs. 25,000 - Rs. 200,000
  • Interest Rate: 6% per annum
  • Repayment Period: Up to 3 years
  • Grace Period: 3 months

2. Business Expansion Loans

  • Amount: Rs. 200,000 - Rs. 500,000
  • Interest Rate: 7% per annum
  • Repayment Period: Up to 5 years
  • Grace Period: 6 months

3. Group Lending

  • Amount: Rs. 500,000 - Rs. 2,000,000
  • Interest Rate: 5% per annum
  • Repayment Period: Up to 5 years
  • Minimum Group Size: 5 women

Eligible Business Categories

  • Agriculture and agro-processing
  • Handicrafts and cottage industries
  • Food processing and catering
  • Retail trading
  • Garment manufacturing
  • Beauty salons and spas
  • Day care centers
  • Tourism and hospitality

Special Features

  • No collateral required for loans up to Rs. 100,000
  • Free business development training
  • Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs
  • Marketing support and linkages
  • Flexible repayment schedules
  • Insurance coverage for borrowers

Eligibility Criteria

  • Female residents of Central Province
  • Age: 18-60 years
  • Member of a registered rural development society
  • Clear business plan and idea
  • Good credit history
  • Willing to undergo business training

Application Process

  1. Attend orientation session at Rural Development Office
  2. Complete business development training (2 days)
  3. Prepare business plan with assistance from officers
  4. Submit loan application with required documents
  5. Credit assessment and approval (within 14 days)
  6. Loan disbursement

Required Documents

  • National Identity Card
  • Proof of residence
  • Society membership certificate
  • Business plan
  • Bank account details
  • Two references (for loans above Rs. 100,000)

Next Orientation Sessions:

Kandy District: Every Monday at 10:00 AM
Matale District: Every Tuesday at 10:00 AM
Nuwara Eliya District: Every Wednesday at 10:00 AM

For more information, contact your Divisional Rural Development Office or call our helpline: 081-2205593