Every successful project begins with a dream a small step that changes lives. At the Economic &
Rural Resources Development Foundation (ERRDF), our impact is measured not only in numbers
but in stories of transformation where rural families, youth, and communities rise above
challenges to create better futures. These are a few glimpses into that journey.
District: Kurunegala Program: Rural Development Portfolio
From a Small Farm to a Growing Enterprise
When Mr. Sunil Jayasooriya, a small-scale farmer from Kurunegala, joined ERRDF’s rural enterprise initiative, he had less than one acre of land and limited access to credit. With technical guidance and a revolving development loan, he introduced organic vegetable cultivation and a small drip-irrigation system. Today, his produce supplies three local markets, and he employs three workers from his village. His success inspired 12 other farmers to adopt similar practices creating a community-driven model for sustainable agriculture.
“I never thought my land could feed both my family and others. ERRDF gave me confidence, not
just capital.”
District: Galle Program: Small Enterprise Support Program
Women Empowerment Through Handicrafts
A group of 15 women in a coastal village near Galle, struggling after the pandemic, joined ERRDF’s Women’s Enterprise Cluster. With training on product design, pricing, and digital marketing, they launched a handicraft brand using recycled materials and coconut shells. Today, their products are sold at local tourism outlets and online platforms. ERRDF also connected them with a microfinance partner for working capital.
“For years we depended on our husbands’ income. Now, we run a business that sustains all our
families.”
District: Kurunegala Program: Rural Development Portfolio
Youth Skills – A New Beginning
Dilshan, a 22-year-old school leaver, was trained under ERRDF’s SkillLink Program in electrical installation. After completing a six-month course and an internship with a private company, he started his own small service business in his hometown. Within a year, he trained two assistants and expanded into solar panel installation — making him one of the first certified rural solar technicians in his area.
“I wanted to work, not wait. The training gave me a new start — now I’m helping others too.”
ERRDF partnered with a local youth group in a small Kandy village to develop homestay tourism around heritage and agriculture. With guidance on hospitality, digital promotion, and waste management, five households now host visitors from Colombo and abroad. The project not only created jobs but revived traditional Kandyan cooking, craft-making, and farming demonstrations for visitors — blending culture and livelihood.
“We didn’t have to leave our village to find jobs — we brought visitors to our doorstep.”
District: Monaragala Program: Community Empowerment & Social Welfare
Building Healthier Communities
ERRDF’s partnership with local health officers launched a nutrition awareness campaign for mothers and school children. Over 800 families were reached with sessions on balanced diets, home gardening, and child nutrition. School gardens now supply fresh vegetables for mid-day meals, reducing costs and improving children’s health.
“It’s not just about food — it’s about dignity and knowledge. Our village learned how to care for
itself.”
Our Storytelling Philosophy
Every project ERRDF undertakes has a human story behind it — one of courage, innovation, and
shared progress. Through these stories, we aim to inspire more partnerships, funding, and
participation, building a stronger network for rural Sri Lanka’s future.
