Symposia & Conferences
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Item Exploring the Barriers and Challenges of Social Entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka; in the Good Market(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2025) Bandara, M. M. T. D. T.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: This study aims to explore social entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka with special reference to the Good Market. Specifically, it seeks to understand the impact of three factors: success factors, challenges and barriers, and sustainability factors on social entrepreneurs in good markets (triple bottom line). By delving into these dimensions, the study aims to provide a clear understanding of the complex interplay between these factors and social entrepreneurship in the good market. Methodology: The study takes a qualitative-inductive approach using semi-structured interviews with 10 social entrepreneurs from different types of businesses in the Good Market. The study method uses purposive sampling methods, collecting data through direct interviews and then analyzing it using thematic analysis. Findings: This study reveals that the success factors of social giving (skill development and knowledge acquisition, support system, experience and expertise, self-motivation), challenges and barriers (financial challenges, market and trade barriers, communication challenges, operational challenges), and sustainable factors (product excellence, sustainable practices, financial management, social responsibility, and employee development) positively and negatively influence social entrepreneurs in the Good Market. This article also incorporates new findings that can be categorized under the three factors mentioned above, focusing on the responses of social entrepreneurs. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the Sri Lankan Good Market social entrepreneurs. The study highlights the barriers faced by social entrepreneurs and identifies enabling factors for success. Removing the barriers faced by social entrepreneurs can promote sustainability and have long-term impacts on the country’s economic growth and society. These findings provide a wealth of knowledge for stakeholders and policymakers interested in social entrepreneurship in developing countries like Sri Lanka.Item Exploring Barriers and Opportunities Faced by Banking Sector When Adopting Fin-Tech Innovations(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2025) Swarnathilake, P. G. O. K.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: FinTech innovations have transformed the banking industry by increasing efficiency in services and improving customer satisfaction, while reaching a greater number of the unbanked population. However, in Sri Lanka, the potential benefits of FinTech are curtailed by regulatory constraints, cybersecurity concerns, and resistance to change. This paper analyzes the dynamics of these challenges and opportunities, focusing on actionable solutions for successful FinTech integration in the Sri Lankan banking sector. Methodology: This qualitative research has been designed under a social constructivist framework; the data collection method adopted in this study is semi-structured interviews with nine representatives of different banks. The respondents have been chosen using purposive sampling in order to capture the diversity in private, government, and foreign banks. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns and themes pertaining to FinTech adoption barriers and opportunities. Findings: Opportunities: 1.Efficiency and Automation: Reduction in operational costs; smoother processes. 2.Customer-Centric Innovation: Personalized finance services; AI-driven support. 3.Financial Inclusion: Increasing access to the rural and under-served sections of society. 4.Improving Payment Systems: Speedier and more secure digital transactions. Challenges: 1.Regulatory Barriers: Vagueness and outdated frameworks. 2.Cybersecurity Risks: Growing vulnerability with digitization. 3.Resistance to Change: From both employees and customers. 4.Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate connectivity in rural areas. Conclusion: This study brings to light that while FinTech offers transformative opportunities for Sri Lankan banks, overcoming significant barriers is essential for successful integration. Investments in infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and regulatory reform are vital to leveraging FinTech's potential for efficiency, inclusion, and customer satisfaction.Item Exploring Business Development Services Provided by Microfinance Institutions in Sri Lanka.(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2025) Bandara, A. G. M. P. I.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a key role in empowering marginalized communities by providing financial and non-financial support to enhance entrepreneurial growth and economic development. In Sri Lanka, MFIs address capital constraints and enhance entrepreneurial growth and capacity through Business Development Services (BDS), including training, mentoring and market facilitation. This study examines the types of Business Development Services offered by MFIs in Sri Lanka, delivery methods, barriers faced by MFIs and strategies to enhance the sustainability of micro and small enterprises. Methodology: Following a qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with senior officials from five leading MFIs in Sri Lanka. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns and insights. Findings: The study categorizes BDS as advisory services, agricultural training, and digital market linkages, delivered individual workshops, field officers, and partnerships. Challenges like resource constraints and workforce retention are addressed through collaboration, staff training, and community education initiatives. Conclusion: BDS from MFIs leads to micro enterprise growth by improving financial literacy, market access, and efficiency. Despite challenges, effective delivery and collaboration increase impact. The study contributes to understanding the role of MFIs in economic development and provides policymakers with actionable insights to strengthen the microfinance sector in Sri Lanka.Item Factors and Challenges Affecting the Success of Women Entrepreneurship; A Study in Bakery Products Industry in Northwestern Province of Sri Lanka(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Mudalige, M.B.N.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: It is frequently recognized that economic growth and wealth are dependent on entrepreneurship and that the number of women entrepreneurs worldwide has significantly increased. The modern world views entrepreneurship as a potent force that promotes productivity, job creation, and economic expansion. This study aims to determine the critical elements and obstacles that impact the performance of female entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka and their ability to manage their businesses and to provide recommendations for the most effective course of action. The primary goal of this study is to identify and analyse the variables and obstacles that could affect how well women entrepreneurs succeed. Methodology: This research followed the social constructivism philosophy to examine the real, and this research is conducted as qualitative research in which data, words, images or objects were collected through the methods of interviews, field notes and participant observations in the evaluations. Also, this study is also associated with the inductive approach. In this research, I used the purposive sampling method. The population is Sri Lankan women business owners who have been active in the bakery products industry in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka for over three years. I identified 10 Sri Lankan women business owners active in the Bakery products industry in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka as a sample. The data collection method is conducting interviews. I could identify four main success factors as main themes, and the findings of challenges are detailed as 20 sub-themes from the interviews conducted. Conclusion: This study goes a step further and explains the factors that influence the success or failure of women entrepreneurs. Hence, it will help women entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka and all stakeholders, like the government, customers, employees, and investors, to make appropriate decisions.Item Factors and Challenges Affecting the Success of Women Entrepreneurship; A Study in Salon Industry in Kurunegala District of Sri Lanka(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Dissanayake, D.M.K.L.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: Women’s entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka grapples with persistent challenges, stemming from intertwined issues that have impeded historical progress. This study aimed to discover the factors and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the salon industry in the Kurunegala district. Methodology: Qualitative methods were used to collect data from interviews with women entrepreneurs in the salon industry. The findings show that a significant obstacle is the limited financial capability of women entrepreneurs, constraining their capacity to invest, expand, and compete effectively. Findings: Insufficient governmental and regulatory frameworks exacerbate these challenges, as a lack of robust support structures hampers the growth and sustainability of women-led enterprises. The need for more reliable evidence and data is a key contributing factor to these impediments. The absence of comprehensive information, often influenced by societal rules and customs, complicates the development of targeted policies and initiatives addressing the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. More accurate data is needed to ensure the formulation of informed strategies to uplift and empower women in business. The nation's status further compounds the challenges women entrepreneurs face in Sri Lanka as a developing country. Women managing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) confront a complex interplay of financial constraints, regulatory limitations, and a need for more reliable data. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and tailored interventions to address these unique challenges. Conclusion: Bolstering women's entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka requires initiatives encompassing targeted financial support, reforms in governmental and regulatory frameworks, and the generation of reliable data reflecting diverse rules and customs in business environments. By addressing these challenges directly, Sri Lanka can create an environment conducive to the success and sustainability of women-led businesses, contributing to individual economic empowerment and broader societal development.Item Women Entrepreneurship in Textile and Apparel Industry: Challenges and Success Factors in Colombo District(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Edirisinghe, E.A.L.S.; Abeysekera, R.Introduction: According to the Upper echelons theory, this study explores the main success factors that influence the women entrepreneurs in the Textile and apparel industry in the Colombo District and the major challenges they face during their business journey. Methodology: The research shows what makes it hard for women to run businesses in this field and suggests ways to improve things. The study takes a qualitative-inductive approach, using semi-structured interviews with 12 women entrepreneurs who have more than 3 years of experience in the textile and apparel industry in the Colombo District. Findings :This paper highlights internal success factors such as the need for Independence and passion for forming a business, self-confidence and need for achievement, family and friends support, educational background and technology, and previous occupational experience and external factors such as socio-cultural Factors, government policies, exporting and international markets, participation in women's business networks and mentorship workshops, quality of the product & social media that influence women entrepreneurs in textile and apparel industry. Conclusion: Moreover, competition and adaptation to fashion trends, lack of business knowledge and technology, work-life balance, and COVID-19 impact were identified as challenges.Item Impact of Service Quality on Customer Satisfaction with Special Reference to Mobile Telecommunication Industry of Sri Lanka(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2020) Muthubanda, I.M.; Abeysekera, R.Purpose – Service quality is crucial for every business organization as it allows companies to differentiate themselves from their competitors and enhance the satisfaction of their customers. The study attempts to examine the impact of service quality on customer satisfaction with special reference to the Mobile Telecommunication Industry of Sri Lanka. Design/Methodology/Approach- A survey was conducted for data collection through a structured questionnaire distributed to the customers of four main mobile service providers. The study followed the random stratified proportional sampling method to collect data. Descriptive Statistics, Cronbach's alpha, Multicollinearity Test, Pearson's Correlation and Multiple Linear Regression were used for data analysis. Findings - The study found a positive and significant relationship of network quality, Assurance and Reliability with customer satisfaction. However, Responsiveness, Empathy and Convenience do not have a significant relationship to customer satisfaction of Sri Lankan mobile telecommunication industry. Contribution - The study fulfils the existing research gap in service quality and customer satisfaction of the mobile telecommunication industry of Sri Lanka. The findings of this study will help the management of mobile service providers to plan their future strategies and enables future researchers to conduct studies related to this area.Item Investigating the Impact of Financial Literacy on the Performance of Micro Enterprises in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Fernando, B.R.M.; Abeysekera, R.Purpose: The micro-enterprise sector continues to be a fundamental inducement for job creation and economic growth in Sri Lanka. About 80 per cent of the economy is provided by the small-scale sector, which shows the importance of harnessing its potential in developing the Sri Lankan economy. It has been established that financial literacy significantly influences whether or not small-scale enterprises succeed. Yet, the exact effect of financial literacy on small-scale enterprise performance has to be fully identified in Sri Lanka, hence the need for the present study. This research study examines the effect of financial literacy (awareness, attitude and knowledge) of managers on the performance of micro enterprises in the Gampaha District, Sri Lanka. Design/Methodology/Approach: Primary data were obtained from micro scale-enterprise managers through structured questionnaires. The data were analysed using Multiple Regression Analysis. Findings: The results revealed a significant effect of financial literacy on firm performance (both financial and non-financial performance). Also, all four financial literacy components (knowledge, behaviour, attitude, and skill) significantly positively affect financial and nonfinancial performance. Originality: This study fills empirical and practice gaps.Item Examining The Barriers to The Microfinance Sector: Evidence from Padukka Division Sri Lanka(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Hansani, W.A.; Abeysekera, R.Purpose: Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) provide services to low-income people to alleviate poverty. MFIs face barriers when reaching out to clients. This research aims to examine the barriers to the microfinance sector in the Padukka division of Sri Lanka. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used the multiple case study method. Four MFIs were selected for the study. Data were gathered by conducting 12 in-depth interviews of managers, officers, and clients from selected MFIs. The data were analysed by using crosscase analysis and pattern matching. Findings: Supply-side and demand-side barriers were identified. Supply-side barriers are Deposit side barriers, loan-side barriers, and lack of knowledge, Demand-side barriers are lack of knowledge, non-membership, and economic barriers. Originality: The findings contribute to the microfinance domain, and the practitioners could implement the recommendations.Item The Role of Microfinance Services on Women’s Empowerment in the Kotapola Division, Sri Lanka(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Hettiarachchi, R.C.; Abeysekera, R.Purpose: Women have always been the focus of microfinance because they are associated with lower socio-economic status. The microfinance industry works to empower women in reducing poverty and can, in turn, have a transformative impact on their families and communities. This study focuses on identifying factors that empower women in the Kotapola division. Methodology: The data were gathered from 100 women in the Kotapola area who obtained services from microfinance Institutions. Based on the literature review, 20 factors were used in the questionnaire to identify the most significant factors. Factor analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings: Seven factors significantly enhanced women empowerment in the Kotapola division. They are Poverty Reduction, Income Level, Consumption Level, Self-Satisfaction, Entrepreneurship skill, Social status and Decision Making. Originality: The study’s findings contribute to the microfinance knowledge domain.
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