Disrupt Asia 2025 returns with vision to transform SL into SA’s innovation hub

Minister Eranga Weeraratne

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. 

The event will take place from September 17-20, 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.

Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy said, “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.”

Kicking off the four-day series of events, on September  17 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. 

VE 2025 officially opened on June 18 for registrations in conjunction with the launch of Disrupt Asia, creating significant opportunities for startups.

The Main Conference and Startup Showcase on September 18 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 Innovation Festival on September 19 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.

As part of the Disrupt Asia international engagement, a curated sundowner event will spotlight world class Sri Lankan brands in a unique cultural showcase.