SLT-MOBITEL
SLT-MOBITEL launces Rs. 100 Mn. National AI Fund
For the first time, SLT-MOBITEL will formulate a special ‘National AI Fund’ to encourage and support Start-ups , disclosed Chairman, SLT-MOBITEL Dr. Mothilal De Silva at the launch of Sri Lanka’s first national AI Expo and Conference, which will be held from September 29 to 30, 2025, in Monarch Imperial.
Speaking to LMD, he said that they hope to raise funds for this through the AI Expo and other means and plans to start the fund with Rs. 100 million.
“SLT-MOBITEL recognizes the immense potential of artificial intelligence, and through a Fund of this nature, we can help to drive the country’s digital future.”
“The proposed Fund will be our legacy contribution towards building a digitally inclusive and prosperous Sri Lanka.”
“Through the National AI Expo & Conference, we are committed to ensuring every Sri Lankan, from all communities, has the opportunity to participate and benefit from the AI revolution.
The National AI Expo & Conference will be a landmark national platform designed to directly support the country’s strategic vision to expand the digital economy from an estimated US$3.5 billion in 2025 to US$15 billion in 2030.
Artificial intelligence is projected to contribute 10-12% of this ambitious growth trajectory, positioning AI as a cornerstone in Sri Lanka’s economic transformation.
The event is also supported by the Ministry of Digital Economy and the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA).
Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, said, “The National AI Expo & Conference sets the foundation stone for Sri Lanka’s AI-powered future. In embracing AI, we are systematically developing Sri Lanka to lead the region in responsible AI adoption and implementation.”
The conference will address critical themes essential for Sri Lanka’s AI journey, including responsible AI governance, trust and ethics, implementation challenges, and sector-specific applications in banking and financial services, healthcare, education, agriculture, and small and medium enterprises, etc.
Huawei’s Head Middle East Li Shi, Vice President and Head – India and South-East Asia Sandya Devanathan, and Agency Partner, Global Network Agencies at Meta Kim-Leng Hoeu, along with several thought leaders from leading global technology companies, will attend.
The National AI Expo also aims to support SMEs and MSMEs, showcasing technological solutions to uplift and enable a digitally literate lifestyle for all sectors of society.
