Sixty MSMEs from the Central and Uva provinces showcased innovative business strategies at the Darrawella Club, part of the Pekoe Trail Business Incubator. These enterprises presented plans for job creation and new products along the 300km Pekoe Trail to stakeholders including government representatives, plantation companies, and USAID.
The initiative, funded by the EU and USAID, aims to enhance tourism MSMEs’ capacity through training and mentoring. From 112 participants, 60 were chosen for mentoring sessions, resulting in transformative business plans. The EU sees the Pekoe Trail as an avenue for rural economic development, while USAID emphasizes its role in fostering economic growth in remote communities. This initiative positions the Pekoe Trail as a wellness and nature-based travel destination, set to open to travelers in stages from November.
