The stature of SDB bank today and its journey, therein, represent the culmination of the SANASA Federation’s efforts at championing microfinance and small-to-medium enterprise across Sri Lanka.
SDB bank’s earliest form was conceived in response to the need displayed by the SANASA Federation, for an alternative banking partner and primary credit institution to cater to the financial needs of its sizeable network of island-wide co-operative societies. After an extensive period of strategic planning by the SANASA Group of Companies, SDB bank was licensed and established in 1997.
The influence of its co-operative roots has been strong from the outset, and SDB bank has gone on to effect an unprecedented level of grass-roots economic development by stimulating SME and MSME growth countrywide. Their efforts in the area of female-oriented enterprise too have gained fruition, with increased participation of women in rural industry.
We’ve received numerous international accolades for our contributions toward rural economic development and financial inclusion. These include being recognized as the ‘2nd Best Microfinance Institution in the World - 2010’ from Mix Market Global USA, as well as the ‘Fastest Growing MSME Bank in Sri Lanka - 2018’ award from Global Banking & Finance Review (UK).
In 2017, SDB bank’s reach expanded considerably upon receiving a capital injection of USD 22 Million through a combined investment from three top-tier global organizations: the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Netherlands Development Finance Company (FMO), and SBI Holdings.
SDB bank in the year 2019 has evolved into a modern, innovative bank that is widely recognized as one of the top corporate banks in the country. The acquisition of the digital payments app UPay by SDB bank in mid-2019 represents a continuation of its emphasis on innovation, providing both its urban and rural customers an array of mobile payment options, lifestyle conveniences, and POS services.
SDB bank continues to effect visible change at rural and grass-roots level, and consequently Sri Lanka’s socio-economic progress as a whole, by leveraging on its strong co-operative society heritage and its current network of 94 branches islandwide.
Purpose Statement
To drive 'socially and environmentally sustainable' national development by nurturing SMEs and financially strengthening the cooperative sector through individual and community level empowerment and facilitation of financial inclusion and supporting progressive entrepreneurs through innovation.
SDB bank will be the apex bank of the co-operative sector and a leading partner of national development with a global focus.
By providing high quality innovative and competitive financial products and services, offered through the best customer friendly channels, assisted by cutting edge technologies, with a team of diverse talents working in synergy to provide a total solution to our stakeholders and operating in a culture of learning and continuous value creation, we strive to become the most responsible financial institution in Sri Lanka.
- To foster and maintain the highest ethical standard at all levels of the Bank and its agencies in dealing with customers, stakeholders and competitors.
- To be innovative and demand-driven in providing financial services.
- To be courteous and professional in all business dealings.
- To avoid discrimination on the grounds of religion, sex, ethnicity, social status and language.
- To refrain from extending financial services for unethical and illegal pursuits.
A public quoted company with limited liability, incorporated under the Companies Act 17 of 1982 and re-registered under Companies Act No.07 of 2007 and registered as a Licensed Specialized Bank by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, under the Banking Act No 30 of 1988 (as amended by the Banking Amendment Act of 1995.) and approved Credit Agency under the Mortgage Act No 06 of 1949 as amended by the Mortgage (amendment) Act No 53 of 1949 and Trust Receipt Ordinance No.12 of 1947.
"SDB bank is a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), a network of independent banks using finance to deliver sustainable economic, social and environmental development."
- No. 12. Edmonton Road
Kirulapone
Colombo 06
Sri Lanka. - 011 5411 411