DISRUPT ASIA 2025

Disrupt Asia 2025 returns with bold vision to transform Sri Lanka into South Asia’s innovation hub

18^th June 2025: Sri Lanka aims to become South Asia’s Innovation hub by 2030, with Disrupt Asia 2025 serving as the national platform driving this ambitious transformation. Disrupt Asia will create a conducive ecosystem for investment, attract investors and facilitate the softlanding of investors, startups and accelerators to the market.

The country has set targets of USD 5 billion for the Digital Industry and USD 15 billion for the Digital Economy, positioning as a formidable force in the regional innovation ecosystem. Key highlights of the vision include launching a USD 50 million Fund of Funds, establishing a Virtual Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and strategically carving Sri Lanka as a gateway between the Middle Eastern countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.

The event takes place from 17–20 September 2025, transforming Colombo into South Asia’s innovation epicenter and vibrant hub of creativity, collaboration, and venture capital activity. A dynamic mix of startups, investors, industry leaders, corporates, policymakers, and ecosystem builders from the region are set to attend, driving Sri Lanka’s digital transformation agenda and establishing the country as the premier destination for regional tech innovation.

Backed by the Ministry of Digital Economy and the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), Disrupt Asia 2025 brings together partners including Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism, Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mastercard, Venture Engine, nVentures, Trace Expert City, Asaya Sands, UNDP, BOV Capital, Indian Angel Network, Lankan Angel Network, Hatch, Spike, Cinnamon Life, SriLankan Airlines and Dialog.

Hon. (Eng.) Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, stated “Disrupt Asia 2025, Sri Lanka’s premier startup conference and innovation festival, is a testament to our nation’s commitment to driving a future powered by technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. As we transform Sri Lanka into a regional digital hub, platforms like this are essential for accelerating our startup ecosystem, fostering global collaboration, and unlocking the potential of our next generation of innovators.”

Sandun Hapugoda, Country Manager, Sri Lanka and Maldives, Mastercard, said “Mastercard is delighted to be a partner for Disrupt Asia 2025—a pivotal forum for fostering innovation, collaboration, and investment in transformative technologies. As digital advancements continue to redefine commerce, cybersecurity, and financial ecosystems, Mastercard stands committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s journey toward a digitally inclusive future. By collaborating with visionary entrepreneurs, industry pioneers, and changemakers, the company aims to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation and solidify its role as a dynamic innovator in the region.”

Kicking off the four-day series of events, on 17 September is Venture Engine (VE), Sri Lanka’s leading startup funding platform which offers curated mentorship, strategic exposure, and a unique opportunity for startups to engage with leading investors shaping the future of innovation. Venture Engine, powered by BOV Capital and the Indian Angel Network, and proudly partnered with the Lankan Angel Network (LAN), is thrilled to announce this year’s edition in collaboration with Disrupt Asia, a landmark public – private partnership. VE 2025 will officially open on 18 June 2025 for registrations in conjunction with the launch of Disrupt Asia, creating significant opportunities for startups. Startups who are eligible are invited to apply via the official portal: https://ventureengine.lk. (added)

Prajeeth Balasubramaniam, Co-Founder/Managing Partner, BOV Capital and Founder, LAN, noted, “Venture Engine empowers startups to transform bold ideas into impactful solutions for Sri Lanka and internationally. We are excited to partner with those passionate about putting Sri Lanka on the global stage and invite them to ignite their potential.”

The Main Conference and Startup Showcase on 18 September is the central event for Disrupt Asia 2025, presenting keynote sessions from industry pioneers, policy leaders, and global innovation experts. Attendees will engage in one-on-one investor matchmaking and experience a robust exhibition showcasing 30+ disruptive startups.

The event aims to attract 1–2 venture funds, investors, and accelerators to enter the Sri Lankan market, with efforts underway to facilitate the local setup of a major accelerator. The main focus of the conference will be igniting cross-border investment and fostering strategic partnerships through the Fund of Funds initiative, elevating Sri Lanka as a key destination for regional venture capital activity

The Innovation Festival on 19 September offers a public celebration of technology and creativity designed to inspire the next generation. Interactive tech demos, 50 live product showcases, and immersive installations are expected to spark curiosity and promote tech. Visitors will also enjoy thematic tracks covering FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, AI, Tourism, GovTech, and other emerging domains.

Heminda Jayaweera, Executive Director, TRACE Sri Lanka added, “TRACE Expert City will host the Disrupt Asia Innovation Festival 2025, uniting youth, academia, industry, and government to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship. The festival will spotlight Sri Lankan tech startups, connect them with global expertise, and spark bold ideas for a digitally driven future. TRACE is proud to be the ecosystem partner and host of this key event”

As part of the Disrupt Asia international engagement, a curated sundowner event will spotlight world class Sri Lankan brands in a unique cultural showcase. Attendees will experience the richness of Ceylon through artisanal tastings. Asaya Sands will bring the flavors of Sri Lanka’s southern coast through a specially designed culinary offering. The evening will also include gem displays and cultural elements, reflecting the island’s vibrant heritage. More than a networking event, this sundowner aims to establish a micro hub that bridges Sri Lanka’s innovation and creative excellence with global audiences.

Disrupt Asia 2025 is a catalyst for transforming Sri Lanka into South Asia’s innovation powerhouse. The four-day experience strives to reshape the regional startup ecosystem and define the future of technology and entrepreneurship in South Asia.