The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a $50 million project to accelerate Sri Lanka’s digital transformation, aiming to modernize government services, boost innovation, and strengthen the country’s technology sector.
The Sri Lanka Digital Transformation Project will develop people-centric digital solutions, including an integrated online portal for government services, a secure data-sharing system across agencies, a digital locker for storing documents, and a scalable government cloud platform. Complementary training programs will help citizens and public servants use the new digital services effectively.
“Digital transformation is a powerful driver of inclusive growth and better services,” said Gevorg Sargsyan, World Bank Group Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives. “By investing in core digital platforms and skills, this project will improve how services are delivered to people and businesses and create new opportunities for private sector-led innovation.”
Beyond improving public services, the project seeks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s technology and startup sector. A digital startup accelerator will foster innovation, support female entrepreneurship, and provide programs to help mid-sized technology firms reach customers and investors internationally. The initiative is expected to attract around $10 million in private investment, supporting job creation and higher IT export earnings.
“Better digital government and a stronger IT sector go hand in hand,” said Anna Metz, World Bank Senior Digital Specialist and Task Team Leader. “As public services go digital, demand grows for local technology solutions. At the same time, a more competitive IT sector strengthens Sri Lanka’s ability to develop and maintain modern digital systems.”
The project builds on earlier efforts by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, which has supported Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem through investment and advisory services.
The project will also strengthen Sri Lanka’s capacity to respond to emergencies. Enhanced digital systems will facilitate real-time information sharing among government agencies, support data-driven decision-making, and allow authorities to deliver critical services during cyclones and climate-related disasters.
Implementation will be led by GovTech Sri Lanka (Pvt) Limited in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy.
The project aligns with Sri Lanka’s national development goals and the World Bank Group’s Country Partnership Framework, reflecting a shared commitment to leveraging digital technologies for improved governance, public services, and inclusive growth.
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