From right: Thilan Wijesinghe moderates a powerful discussion with Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Duminda Hulangamuwa, and Gevorg Sargsyan on South Asia’s roadmap to becoming an innovation hub at the Disrupt Asia Main Conference panel discussion
Four-day festival ignites global confidence in Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem
Sri Lanka has firmly staked its claim as South Asia’s rising innovation hub with the successful completion of Disrupt Asia 2025, a four-day celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. The event drew more than 100 venture capitalists from 20 countries including host Sri Lanka, strengthening regional startup networks and cross-border partnerships, signalling unprecedented global confidence in Sri Lanka’s innovation potential.
The event is backed by the Digital Economy Ministry and the Information Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), powered by Mastercard with Event partners Venture Engine, nVentures, Trace Sri Lanka and Asaya Sands, together with Strategic partners the World Bank and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Sri Lanka.
Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne stated, “Disrupt Asia 2025 is a catalyst for innovation to empower our youth, attract global investment, and accelerate the nation’s journey towards a thriving digital economy. The Government continues to implement our national digital transformation agenda, and events such as these create the essential bridge between talented entrepreneurs and global investment opportunities, positioning Sri Lanka as the gateway for innovation throughout the region.”
The four-day event series commenced with the highly anticipated Venture Engine competition organised by the Lanka Angel Network (LAN) at Cinnamon Life, Colombo. From over 160 aspiring applicants and multiple selection rounds, 12 promising startups delivered live pitches to top local angels and regional Venture Capitalists (VCs). The competition attracted prominent VCs and industry participants, creating valuable networking opportunities and opening doors for startups and attendees.
On 18 September, the Main Conference at Cinnamon Life drew national and international attention, with Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Disanayake gracing the occasion, reflecting the national importance of the initiative in driving the country’s digital transformation. A notable highlight was the keynote address by One97 Communications and Paytm Founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma whose insights provided a gateway to expand horizons.
World Bank Regional Practice Director Mahesh Uttamchandani, delivered the opening keynote speech at the Disrupt Asia 2025 Innovation Festival
Among the distinguished guests were high-level representatives from national and strategic partners of the event, the diplomatic community, corporate leaders, investors, regional startup delegations from India, Oman, Qatar, Singapore and other international delegations, demonstrating strong international support for Sri Lanka’s innovation ambitions. The day unfolded with featured keynotes, panel discussions, fireside chats, and curated matchmaking sessions with Sri Lanka’s top 30 startups.
A special highlight was Mastercard’s collaboration as Title Partner for Disrupt Asia 2025. Mastercard Country Manager – Sri Lanka and Maldives Sandun Hapugoda noted, “Mastercard is delighted to collaborate for Disrupt Asia 2025, a pivotal platform that champions digital innovation and entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka. The presence of over 100 venture capitalists and thousands of entrepreneurs is a powerful testament to the vibrancy and potential of the country’s startup ecosystem. By connecting local innovators with global networks, expertise, and investment, Mastercard is helping to catalyse a future-ready digital economy—one that fosters inclusive growth, unlocks new opportunities, and positions Sri Lanka as a hub for tech-driven transformation.”
The agenda featured a compelling session on Angel Investment, delivered by Global Business Angels Network Board Director Israel Pons and European Business Angels Board Member Marcel Dridje. Their global expertise illuminated the latest investment trends and inspired a new wave of angel backing for regional startups.
On 19 September, the Innovation Festival at Trace Expert City brought the startup ecosystem to the public, showcasing a vibrant celebration of creativity and entrepreneurship. Inaugurated by Mahesh Uttamchandani from the World Bank and Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne alongside distinguished guests including Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Director Dr. Sumeet Jarangal.
As part of the Disrupt Asia international engagement, a curated sundowner event will be held to focus on world class Sri Lankan brands in a unique
cultural showcase.
With over 5,000 attendees including students, industry professionals, and families, the festival became one of Sri Lanka’s largest ever technology gatherings. Over 50 local and international startups showcased alongside tech pavilions, workshops, and discussions, creating an immersive experience that connected the startup ecosystem with a broader community audience.
Disrupt Asia 2025 will be remembered as a turning point in strengthening Sri Lanka’s global reputation in the startup and innovation space, creating lasting partnerships and demonstrating the country’s readiness to lead South Asia’s innovation revolution.
Venture Engine winner DiabSense, founded by Kosala Jayasundara (right), with PeakXV Partners and Surge Managing Director Rajan Anandan (left), and Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe