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
- Attend orientation session at Rural Development Office
- Complete business development training (2 days)
- Prepare business plan with assistance from officers
- Submit loan application with required documents
- Credit assessment and approval (within 14 days)
- 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