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About us

History of CPWCIC

Our Beginning

The Central Province Women’s Chamber of Small Industries & Commerce (CPWCIC) was established in 1994 as the second women’s chamber in Sri Lanka. With just 37 pioneering women entrepreneurs as founding members, CPWCIC was created to empower women in business, provide a collective voice, and open pathways to economic self-reliance.

Over the past three decades, the Chamber has grown into a powerful network of over 1,500 women entrepreneurs, representing a diverse range of industries in the Central Province. From small-scale enterprises to emerging exporters, CPWCIC has become a platform for innovation, collaboration, and resilience.

Our Vision

To be the premier trade chamber guiding women in the Central Province toward economic prosperity and self-reliance.

Our Mission

To address the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and provide the resources needed to produce high-quality goods and services that can compete effectively in the open market.

Our Core Values

  • Empowerment – Building confidence and skills among women entrepreneurs.

  • Integrity – Upholding transparency, ethics, and accountability.

  • Innovation – Encouraging creativity and competitiveness.

  • Collaboration – Working together with members, partners, and communities.

  • Inclusivity – Welcoming diversity across all sectors and backgrounds.

  • Sustainability – Promoting responsible and future-ready business practices.

Governance & Structure

The CPWCIC is governed by a 17-member Board of Directors elected annually. The Board represents women entrepreneurs across multiple industries and ensures that the Chamber continues to meet its mission of empowering women in business.

Board of Directors (2025)

director board

  • President : Mrs. Kanthi Madagammana

  • Past President & Senior Advisor: Madam Sharly Jayawardena

  • Secretary: Mrs. Damayanthi Meddegoda

  • Treasurer: Mrs. Subodini Maduwanthi

  • Senior Vice President: Mrs. Mona Chondon

  • Senior Vice President: Mrs. Kumuduni

  • Past President: Mrs. Rukmani Thilakarathna

    Our Journey: A Timeline of Empowerment

    1994 – The Beginning

    • CPWCIC is founded in Kandy as the second Women’s Chamber in Sri Lanka, with 37 pioneering members.

    • Pic Founding Chairmen

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    • Created to empower women entrepreneurs and provide them with a platform for growth and recognition.

    1995–2005 – Building the Foundation

    • Membership steadily grows as more women in the Central Province join the Chamber.

    • Early training programs launched in handloom, cookery, and small industries, helping women formalize their businesses.

    • Partnerships formed with FCCISL and government institutions.

    2006–2015 – Expanding Reach

    • Membership expands beyond Kandy into surrounding districts.

    • CPWCIC strengthens international collaborations, including support from The Asia Foundation.

    • Women-led enterprises from diverse sectors (mushrooms, floriculture, jewellery, leather) gain visibility through exhibitions and fairs.

    2016–2020 – Recognition & Leadership

    • CPWCIC emerges as a recognized voice for women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka.

    • The Chamber actively engages in policy advocacy, representing members’ interests at national forums.

    • Annual Board of Directors (17 members) structure formalized for stronger governance.

    2021–2025 – Strength in Numbers

    • Membership grows to over 1,500 women entrepreneurs across the Central Province.

    • Expanded programs in innovation, non-traditional enterprises, and export-oriented businesses.

    • Strong partnerships with NEDA, NPC, IDB, EDB, Indian High Commission, and foreign embassies enhance opportunities for members.

    • Celebrated 30+ years of empowering women entrepreneurs with training in sustainability, digital skills, and global market access.

    Today

    • CPWCIC is a leading women’s chamber in Sri Lanka, guiding members toward economic prosperity and self-reliance.

    • Continues to uphold its vision: “To be the premier trade chamber guiding women in the Central Province toward economic prosperity and self-reliance.”