Australia announces business partnership opportunities in Sri Lanka for COVID-19 recovery
COLOMBO – The Australian High Commission in Colombo on Monday (14) called for proposals from businesses to support COVID-19 economic recovery in Sri Lanka under the Business Partnerships Platform (BPP).
The BPP is a flagship initiative of the Australian government that supports partnerships with businesses to deliver sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction, while also ensuring commercial returns for business.
“Business will play a central role in rebuilding Sri Lanka’s economy as it recovers from COVID-19, and this exciting opportunity to partner with the Australian government can support positive change through improved livelihood opportunities, enhanced gender equality and an inclusive economic recovery,” said David Holly, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka.
The BPP can co-finance with businesses to support COVID-19 economic recovery by establishing partnerships which contribute to digitalization, skills development for workers and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, economic opportunities for women, or green recovery.
In Sri Lanka, BPP is seeking partnerships in the sectors of Information and communication technology (ICT); Agriculture technology and fisheries; Online education and education technology; and Financial inclusion. Applications close on November 4, 2020.
A statement from the Australian High Commission in Colombo said Sri Lankan businesses can apply individually or in a consortium, elaborating that the Australian government will provide matched funding of up to AUD 500,000 to successful business initiatives.
Businesses with a commercial idea that could make a lasting social impact are encouraged to contact the Australian High Commission in Colombo, R.Sivasuthan@dfat.gov.au or visit: www.thebpp.com.au for further information. Businesses are also requested to register online at https://thebpp.com.au/call-for-partnerships/bpp-sri-lanka-call-for-partnerships to participate in an information session.
For more information contact: Colombo, Sri Lanka: Sivasuthan Ramanathan, Program Manager, Australian High Commission, R.Sivasuthan@dfat.gov.au
Canberra, Australia: Corinne Roberts, Communications Manager, the Business Partnerships Platform corinne.roberts@thebpp.com.au