In 1989, HNB introduced its own micro financing program known as Gami Pubuduwa (village awakening) to extend financial services to self-employment projects and other micro enterprises in rural areas.
The uniqueness of this scheme is that it revolves around field officers known as Gami Pubudu Upadeshaka (GPU) who closely associate with the rural community, identify their strengths and opportunities and make suitable financial proposals to promote successful micro entrepreneurs.
The Gami Pubuduwa scheme has now become one of the most successful micro-finance programs implemented by a commercial bank in Sri Lanka, and was recognized by the World Bank.
For finance agriculture, cottage industries, livestock farming, fisheries, trade and services up to Rs. 200,000 under a group loan system. Offered at an interest rate of 12% per annum.
The scheme provides micro financing for income generating activities exclusively in the Southern Province for up to Rs. 5 Million at an interest rate of 10.5% per annum.
For manufacturing and service industries to be financed up to Rs. 7.5 million under this scheme at an interest rate of 8% per annum.
Tea and rubber-based small industries and small industries operated by farmer organizations can be financed up to Rs. 7.5 Million through this scheme at an interest rate of 7% per annum.
For start-up self-employment projects initiated by Youth who pass out from vocational training institutions with NVQ (National Vocational Qualifications) are financed by this scheme up to a maximum loan amount of Rs. 500,000/- at an interest rate of 9% per annum.
HNB with HNB Assurance offers Micro Insurance as a value addition to any micro entrepreneur who wishes to obtain credit facilities under the Micro & Agro credit schemes.
