Startup SL

Startup SL, launched on January 1st, 2017, has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for the Sri Lankan startup ecosystem. With its continued presence as an ongoing project, it has significantly altered the landscape for entrepreneurs and startups in the nation.

The project's inception was fueled by a pressing need to connect and empower the budding entrepreneurial talent in Sri Lanka. It recognized the vital role startups play in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Startup SL set out with a mission to catalyze connections, foster innovation, and propel Sri Lankan startups to unprecedented heights.

The project's objectives are straightforward but transformative. It sought to facilitate networking among startups, allowing them to share insights, ideas, and collaborations. Furthermore, it aimed to connect with stakeholders in the ecosystem, which includes investors, incubators, and mentors. These connections serve as the lifeblood of a thriving startup ecosystem, propelling growth and fostering innovation.

The scope of Startup SL is comprehensive, encompassing platform development, startup connectivity, stakeholder engagement, community support, and the acceleration of startup growth. It has brought together a multitude of stakeholders and partners, including LK Domain, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, SLASSCOM, FITIS, CSSL, and several partner organizations. These collaborations have fortified the project's foundation, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the Sri Lankan startup ecosystem.

The project's target audience includes entrepreneurs, startups, freelancers, and ecosystem enablers, catering to both seasoned professionals and aspiring newcomers. One of its primary goals is to establish the Startup SL platform as the go-to destination for job vacancies within the startup space. By the end of 2024, it aims to generate 10,000 direct employments and connect 1,000 startups.

Startup SL's impressive outcomes demonstrate the project's impact. To date, it has connected 850 startups, bridged the gap for 129 freelancers, and engaged 28 ecosystem partners in a collective effort to nurture the tech community. The project boasts 3,775 active system users who are shaping the future of Sri Lanka's startup landscape.

Looking ahead, the future of Startup SL is bright. It envisions an expanded network of startups and stakeholders, leading to increased innovation and success stories. As the project continues to grow and evolve, its potential to drive substantial economic impact in Sri Lanka remains a promise yet to be fully realized. Startup SL is not just a project but a movement that is poised to accelerate the country's economic development, one startup at a time.