Norway supports the Chambers of Commerce in the Districts of Sri Lanka through two programs.
Norway supports the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) with Rs 204 million to develop the organisational capacity of 28 district chambers. The aim is to create strong and financial independent CC’s with the capacity to lobby, provide business development services and create a strong membership bases.
Norway also support the International Finance Cooperation (IFC) with 344 million rupees to assist Small and medium businesses in the five Southern Regions. The program aim at facilitating SMEs access to credit as well as assistance to develop their business. Increased access to credit has been a major obstacle in Sri Lanka for SMEs' for years.
The Embassy and SIDA on a Chamber visit in June 2009