European Union

NSA project

Non-State Actors in Development

The Chamber was successful in being selected for another EU funded project making this the 3^rd project with the EU. The project commenced  from the 1^st of April with the overall objective and the specific objectives of the present project in the context of on-going marginalization and social exclusion of youth and women of Sri Lanka experienced in the post conflict environment. The project will have a close link with the present Youth Business Sri Lanka Project implemented in a number of districts in close collaboration with the district chambers.

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce proposes to contribute to the reduction of economic and social disparities prevalent in Sri Lanka through the promotion of youth entrepreneurship in the least developed/ marginalized areas. This objective will be achieved through capacity building and the strengthening of regional organizations/youth support organizations and young entrepreneurs to encourage engagement in sustainable business ventures and importantly to achieve economic sufficiency and partner with regional development organisations in areas affected by conflict in Sri Lanka.

The “Youth in Regional Development and Socioeconomic Integration” is a 30 month project starting from April 2011 and will be implemented in 6 Districts. The aim of the project is to create support mechanisms to youth and women in their entrepreneurial activities with financial and material support and guidance, adding successful mentorship programme that will be implemented by the District Chambers. Such mentoring, it is expected, will contribute to healing the wounds and would provide a space for airing their voice.

The main target groups of the project include selected young entrepreneurs and mentors in the 6 districts, district chambers and private social enterprises having regional presence. As an added value to the entire implementation process, CCC will emphasis on promoting sustainable conflict sensitive reconciliation programs that look at peace building and development in a multi dimensional manner taking into account many other connecting peripheral themes such as gender equality, psychosocial welfare, youth inclusiveness and grass root complexities of post conflict economic sustainability.