SPARK 2023 Bootcamp Empowers Sri Lanka’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

The two-day residential SPARK bootcamp organized by the International Labour Organization, in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, on 7th and 8th August offered a transformational experience to the competitions top 35 contestants,redefining entrepreneurship training through an innovative and interactive approach.

SPARK aims to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit among youth innovators, disruptors, thinkers, problem-solvers, and creators between the ages of 15 and 24. Following a vast number of applications submitted by aspiring young entrepreneurs from across the country, 105 shortlisted contestants received virtual trainings on key topics related to entrepreneurship, after which they submitted business proposals. An evaluation and screening process identified the top 35 contenders who will vie for a place at the grand finale on August 21st. The innovative bootcamp delivered a comprehensive curriculum encompassing business planning, dynamic marketing strategies, and effective pitching techniques, with participants honing their skills through interactive and collaborative exercises, fostering a nurturing environment for learning and growth. Participants also had the opportunity to hear from industry-leading entrepreneurs including Shalin Balasuriya, co-founder and CEO of SPA Ceylon, as well as Achala Samaradiwakara, co-founder Good Market, enhance their business ideas with one-on-one mentoring sessions with experts and business consultants.

“The Spark Boot Camp provided me with useful resources and advice that I can draw upon to refine my business idea and create a successful business plan. I collaborated with other participants and learnt from their thoughtful and direct feedback” said an enthusiastic participant. “The educational sessions gave me valuable insights into the entrepreneurial process, and the exercises fostered collaboration and creative problem-solving. Overall, the workshop was very helpful and gave me the tools I needed to pursue my business ambitions” was what another young mind felt about the workshop.

A Network with seasoned industry experts and fellow aspiring entrepreneurs, forging connections that will facilitate their path to success. Facilitated by knowledge partners including UNDP HackaDev and Citra Lab, and technology partners, Dialog ideamart and Marketplace,SPARKfocusedon emerginggame-changers,armingthemwithinnovativetools to build sustainable start-ups.

SPARK is a flagship initiative of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) South Asia Leadership in Entrepreneurship (SALE) programme, of which the Ceylon Chamber is the implementing partner. Through strategic interventions such as SPARK, ILO’s SALE programme, funded by the U.S Department of State is endeavouring to boost young people’s transition into the entrepreneurial world and create a shift in the entrepreneurial ecosystems.