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Empowering the community through financial inclusion in the short, medium, and long term is an important objective of DFCC Bank. Upgrading knowledge and skills, offering financial products at affordable rates, and enhancing the well-being of the community are key aspects we focused on in 2024. Additionally, our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives played a significant role in fostering community development, supporting educational programmes, and promoting environmental sustainability. These efforts not only contributed to social welfare but also helped create long-lasting positive impacts, empowering individuals and communities to thrive sustainably.
Over
445
entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs upskilled and promoted
Over
35
new partnerships for community empowerment initiatives
Community Engagement at DFCC Bank
DFCC Bank remains deeply committed to creating meaningful and sustainable socio-economic impacts within the communities it serves. Our outreach efforts align with and contribute to the 6E themes of DFCC Bank’s sustainability strategy, (Education, Environment, Entrepreneurship, Elderly, Emergency Relief and Exercise). These themes help us structure projects that address critical social needs while fostering long-term sustainability.
Why community engagement is vital for us
DFCC Bank recognises that strong and resilient communities are fundamental to sustainable economic growth. Through carefully designed initiatives, we aim to empower individuals, support local businesses, and provide relief during times of crisis. Our strategic community investments align with national priorities, addressing gaps in education, financial literacy, disaster relief, and environmental conservation.
At DFCC Bank, community engagement is deeply embedded in our corporate ethos. We go beyond traditional CSR to ensure that sustainability is woven into our operations, driving long-term well-being for the communities we serve. Our commitment is built upon our industry leadership, professionalism, expertise, and our forward-thinking approach to innovation and digitalisation. The Bank’s leadership remains steadfast in delivering value to the communities we serve, as exemplified by the diverse initiatives we undertook in 2024.
CSr Project Management process
Our CSR Project Identification process ensures that community needs are accurately assessed and addressed. By actively engaging stakeholders and maintaining transparency, we identify projects that create meaningful impact. This structured approach also serves as a grievance resolution mechanism, allowing us to address community concerns effectively while ensuring inclusive and sustainable development.
CSR Project Management Mechanism
Project identification (Community needs/ grievances)
- Sustainability Department, 6E Champions, Sustainability Champions, Branches/ Departments, Other Stakeholders
Project idea evaluation/project designing
- Sustainability Department, 6E Champions
Project screening/ strategic direction
- Executive Sustainability Management Committee
Project implementation
- Sustainability Department, Regional Offices, Branches/ Departments
Project monitoring and record keeping
- Sustainability Department
Guidance and Governance in CSR Engagements
Under the guidance of the Board of Directors, the Environmental and Social Management Committee (ESMC) is entrusted with the overall responsibility for exploring, implementing, and overseeing CSR initiatives within the framework of our sustainability strategy. This ensures that our activities deliver meaningful value to the communities we serve, aligning with our long-term commitment to social responsibility.
Collaboration: A Pillar of DFCC Bank’s Sustainability Framework
Collaboration is fundamental to DFCC Bank’s sustainability strategy. We actively seek partnerships with organisations and entities that share our vision for community development, amplifying our collective impact. Moreover, we encourage our employees to play an active role in CSR initiatives, leveraging their skills and time, to contribute to creating a broader, positive social impact across the communities we support.


DFCC Bank is proud to announce its partnership with the Courage Compassion Commitment (CCC) Foundation as the official banking partner and gold sponsor of the 1333 Bikeathon “Ride to Save Lives” campaign 2024. This powerful initiative, which is targeted at suicide awareness and prevention, commenced on 29 August from Independence Square in Colombo. Riders completed a 13-day, 1,333 – kilometre journey across Sri Lanka, aiming to raise awareness for the 1333 toll-free crisis support hotline, and generate crucial funds to sustain and expand its operations.
In a strong display of support for its communities, DFCC Bank staff from its extensive branch network joined the campaign by participating in the ride, walk, and awareness sessions at various locations, embodying the Bank’s dedication to the cause. The journey concluded on 10 September in Colombo, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day.


DFCC partnered with the Sri Lanka Army (512 Infantry Brigade) for the Jaffna Lagoon Conservation Initiative, coinciding with the 75th Army Day celebrations. As part of this celebration, signboards were installed around the lagoon to raise awareness of the importance of preserving this important eco-system.

DFCC Bank partnered with the University of Colombo, Department of Finance for the Enterprise Based Project (EBP) Fair, empowering third-year students to showcase innovative products and services. DFCC Bank sponsored the Best Green Product award which highlights its continued support to uplift youth to adopt sustainable practices.
CSR activities in 2024
DFCC Bank has implemented a series of impactful projects across various thematic areas.
KIRI
WYAWASABHIMAN

Impact
A unique product has been designed to empower small-scale dairy farmers by integrating both financial and technical support, aimed at enhancing productivity across the dairy value chain across the country. This features a unique loyalty card for dairy entrepreneurs, offering access to DFCC Bank’s products at concessionary rates, supported by a dedicated fund. Partnerships with leading dairy sector companies provide loyalty cardholders with exclusive discounts on essential dairy-related equipment, machinery, and pharmaceuticals. The integrated approach exemplifies the commitment to rural economic development and Impact sustainable growth.
2 Programmes
Community Outreach
70+ dairy farmers
Geographical reach
Homagama, Pannala


WYAPARA SAHAYA

Impact
The programme is an initiative to enhance the entrepreneurship knowledge and skills of aspiring entrepreneurs. It entails extensive discussions and demonstrations of various aspects of entrepreneurship development, including dealing with challenges and being innovative.
3 Programmes
Community Outreach
260+ entrepreneurs
Geographical reach
Badulla , Kandy,
Kuliyapitiya


WYAPARA HAMUWA
BOOTCAMP
Impact
DFCC Bank proudly hosted its inaugural symposium in November 2024, at the DFCC Bank Visionarium, empowering previously trained entrepreneurs with advanced business insights. Intensive sessions were conducted covering key areas such as business opportunity identification, marketing strategies, financial essentials, and forecasting. The event also featured a mini fair promoting the “buy local” concept, where participants showcased their products. DFCC Bank head office staff actively supported the entrepreneurs, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.
1 Programme
Community Outreach
25+ entrepreneurs
Geographical reach
Islandwide


DFCC THIRASARA
ATHWELA

Impact
The Thirasara Athwela Entrepreneurship Development Workshop was launched as part of DFCC Bank’s sustainability initiatives to foster entrepreneurship. Designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with practical insights, tools, and strategies, the programme promotes sustainable business development while encouraging innovation and tackling key challenges.
The inaugural workshop successfully engaged students pursuing their Higher Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (HDESBM), blending academic knowledge with real-world expertise to nurture the next Impact generation of business leaders.
1 Programme
Community Outreach
60+ students and
entrepreneurs
Geographical reach
Islandwide


Partnership with CCC
for 1333 Bikeathon –
“Ride to Save Lives”
Impact
DFCC Bank partnered with “Courage, Compassion, Commitment” – “CCC” Foundation to support the 1333 Bikeathon 2024 programme, a campaign focused on raising awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. This initiative highlights DFCC Bank’s commitment to fostering emotional well-being and building a supportive society.
While sponsoring the event as the official banking partner, the Bank staff actively participated in many of the sub events consisting of rides, awareness campaigns and a walk.
Community Outreach
2,500+ people
Geographical reach
Islandwide
Events
Three rides: Independence Square to Ratmalana on Day 1, Peradeniya to Kandy on Day 2, Bentota to Ratmalana to Independence Square on Day 13 One walk: Galle Face Green to Independence Square on Day 13
One walk: Galle Face Green to Independence Square on Day 13
Town awareness campaigns to promote CCC line operations: In Kandy on Day 2, in Anuradhapura on Day 4, in Vavuniya on Day


SCHOLARSHIP
PROGRAMME TO
ASSIST VICTIMS OF
EASTER ATTACK
Impact
This scholarship programme supports students affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks, offering them financial aid to continue their studies, until they complete their secondary education.
DFCC Bank remains committed to standing with these families during their time of need, ensuring the next generation is not deprived of opportunities.
Beneficiaries
09 Students
Geographical reach
Negombo
DFCC FLOURISH
BEYOND

Impact
DFCC Bank’s Flourish Beyond programme carried out in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Association of Geriatric Medicine supports senior citizens in enhancing their cognitive and overall well-being during their transition into later life. Focused on promoting physical and mental wellness, the initiative raises awareness on reducing the risk of dementia and addressing challenges such as social isolation and reduced independence.
In 2024, the programme continued its impact, offering motivational support, interactive sessions, and resources to help seniors embrace this new phase with confidence.
2 Programmes
Community Outreach
250+ people
Geographical reach
Kandy, Galle


DFCC-CARITAS
SEDEC SCHOLARSHIP
PROGRAMME
Impact
In partnership with CARITAS Sri Lanka – SEDEC, DFCC Bank offered scholarships to underprivileged students, providing them with financial support for their secondary and tertiary education. The scheme ensures that no discrimination is made between religion, region or ethnicity. Special preference is given to children with disabilities.
The programme aims to break the cycle of poverty by ensuring access to quality education and opportunities for academic excellence.
Beneficiaries
197 students throughout the year
Geographical reach
Ampara, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, Badulla, Colombo, Galle, Gampaha, Hambanthota, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Killinochchi
DFCC SAMATA
ENGLISH

Impact
This is the programme’s sixth year. The social support initiative, is a collaboration with Gateway Language Centre, and is carried out free of charge.
The course, which was held in Matara, ran for a duration of four months. The course focused on developing key skills such as communication, grammar, listening, reading, and writing. Tailored to job-market needs, the programme used activity-based education, incorporating soft skills like teamwork, time management, interview preparation, and conflict resolution.
Community Outreach
27 Students
Geographical reach
Matara


DFCC COMMUNITY KITCHEN

Impact
Launched in 2022 during the economic crisis, the DFCC Community Kitchen initiative focuses on addressing food insecurity in underserved communities. This programme aligns with DFCC Bank’s commitment to alleviating poverty and enhancing community well-being, by fostering a culture of care and compassion.
By providing nutritious, freshly prepared meals to individuals, children and families in need, the programme strengthens community resilience, while fostering a culture of compassion and care.
Several of the kitchens conducted catered to the underserved Impact (disable persons and indigenous) community.
12 Programmes
Community Outreach
3,000+ persons
Geographical reach
Kegalle, Colombo, Anuradhapura,
Kurunegala, Gampaha, Ratnapura,
Galle, Batticaloa, Vavuniya and Kalutara


SCHOOL SUPPORT THROUGH
COMMUNITY KITCHENS
Impact
In addition to providing meals, DFCC Bank’s programme also focused on promoting healthy living, tree planting, and seed distribution. It further supported the school by providing essential supplies based on specific needs, such as girl guide uniforms, a smart TV for lessons, a sound/speaker system for assemblies, books for the library, model paper sets for Grade 5 students, printed handouts, painting the main school hall, stationery packs, ceiling sheets for smart classrooms, and sports equipment.
12 Programmes
Beneficiaries
12 schools


DFCC BANK
EMERGENCY RELIEF
Impact
Programme offers immediate assistance to communities affected by floods and other natural disasters. The Bank provides essential supplies such as food, water, clothing, and financial support to help families recover and rebuild their lives.
12 Programmes
Beneficiaries
560+ Families
Geographical reach
Akuressa, Athuraliya, Kuruwita, Chilaw


Colour guide to the impact mentioned in the above table
Provide support when it matters most
Contribute to overall environmental health and resilience, offering long-term benefits to both ecosystems and communities
Mitigating climate change while enhancing resilience to its impacts
Strengthening stakeholder relationships and building lasting bonds with the Bank
Leveraging learning as a catalyst for socio-economic development
Nourishing young minds for a healthier, brighter future
Promote self-care awareness and encourage timely intervention when needed
Fostering excellent community engagement
Encouraging outdoor activities for better health and well-being
Driving positive change through entrepreneur awareness programmes, empowering innovation and growth
Enhance employee involvement and participation
CSR Value Delivery
Through these initiatives, DFCC Bank continues to play a vital role in the social and economic upliftment of communities, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and impactful corporate citizenship.
Value to the Community |
Value to the Bank |
Value to the Nation |
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THE STORY OF NETH CASHEW PRODUCTS
Since 2010, Mr Eranga Balasooriya has been growing his cashew business with dedication, overcoming the challenges in manual processing and supply chain inefficiencies. Recognising his potential, the Bank stepped into support his growth, providing a machine, which significantly improved efficiencies.
Building on this success, the Bank empowered Mr Balasooriya recently with a refinance facility, enabling him to invest in advanced machinery and scale up production to 2,000 kg per month.
Now, with aspirations to further expand his business, he continues to thrive with the Bank’s unwavering support. His journey highlights the vital role of financial institutions in transforming small businesses, fostering growth, and creating lasting economic impact.