Venture Engine Supports Next Generation of Fashion Entrepreneurs
Talented entrepreneurs are supported in the setting up of their own business enterprises, and with assistance ranging from practical help in the form of studio space, through to serious and strategic business mentoring, financial support, advice on marketing, and design critique, over a period of one to three years.
Ultimately, as a result these startup businesses will grow and develop some very real, lasting and progressive exposure to local and international markets, and create opportunities for the businesses to lay solid foundations and sustainable developmental goals – often key in relation to planning and production when working with local artisans and rural communities to develop sustainable production methodologies and products.
This year, six young designers have been awarded support bursaries, despite an extremely competitive selection process by Venture Enginewww.ventureengine.lk
The brands launched and the designers behind them were, fashion brand House of Lonali by Lonali Rodrigo, Interior design practice a-design studio by Yamini Bala,fashion brand Nithya by Nithya Lamahewa, funky designed skakteboards label Push Skateboards by Graphic designer Hash Bandara, fashion label Prabath by Prabath Samarasooriyaand IK – light fixtures by Insiyah Kutbuddin.
Venture Engine, is a unique project aimed at creating real opportunity for Sri Lankan Entrepreneurs. It has been conceptualized by Blue Ocean Ventures (BOV) and the Indian Angel Network (IAN), and backed by industry heavyweights. Venture Engine also was the starting point for Lankan Angel network (LAN - http://lankanangelnetwork.com) which brings together the Sri Lankan investor and mentor community. LAN also supports the Future Designers’ Business Launch initiative.
LAN Member Sanath Fernando (Ridgecrest CEO) commented that this initiative is only one corner stone in building an eco system that supports entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. “We are looking at creating ways to help people with bright ideas to go forward and become successful with their business ideas. It will help the economy as new enterprises always add value to the economy in various ways”
Category: Business
0 comments