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.
Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, Hon. 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 organized 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 September 18, the Main Conference at Cinnamon Life drew national and international attention, with His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanyake, the President of Sri Lanka 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 Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO, One97 Communications and Paytm, whose insights provided a gateway to expand horizons.
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. Sandun Hapugoda, Country Manager, Sri Lanka and Maldives, Mastercard 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 catalyze 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 Israel Pons, Board Director, Global Business Angels Network and Marcel Dridje, Board Member, European Business Angels. Their global expertise illuminated the latest investment trends and inspired a new wave of angel backing for regional startups.
On September 19, 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 Hon. Eranga Weerarathna, Deputy Minister, Digital Economy, alongside distinguished guests including Dr. Sumeet Jarangal, Director, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) .
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.
