The Global Business Angel Network (GBAN), part of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), was proud to be represented at Disrupt Asia 2025 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Board member Israel Pons joined global innovators, startups, and investors to spotlight the role of angel investing in shaping resilient economies.
During the conference, Israel Pons, GBAN's Board Director, appeared on Sri Lanka’s leading national TV channel to discuss the critical role that entrepreneurs, innovators, angel investors, and venture capitalists play in driving economic transformation.
“Sri Lanka is uniquely positioned to emerge as an Island of Innovation and Disruption. With a highly educated talent pool, a growing startup culture, and increasing regional connectivity, the country has the potential to become a hub for scalable ventures and cross-border investment,” Israel shared.
Collaboration as the Key to Growth
In his remarks, Israel emphasized that Sri Lanka’s rise as a regional innovation hub will depend on collaboration across the ecosystem:
Entrepreneurs must think globally while leveraging their local strengths.
Angel investors and VCs need to go beyond capital by offering mentorship, expertise, and access to networks.
Policy makers and ecosystem builders must continue fostering an environment that encourages risk-taking, innovation, and investment.
“Now is the time for international investors and ecosystem partners to engage with Sri Lanka. The opportunities are real, the talent is here, and the momentum is building. By connecting capital with creativity, we can help accelerate Sri Lanka’s role as a regional innovation hub,” he said.
Highlights from Disrupt Asia 2025
The conference itself was a launchpad for groundbreaking ideas, featuring:
Inspiring keynotes from global thought leaders
Next-level networking with startups and investors
Spotlight on Sri Lanka’s innovation ecosystem — from AI and fintech to sustainable solutions
One of the highlights was the Angel Investment session, co-led by Israel Pons (GBAN) and Marcel Dridje (EBAN – European Business Angel Network). Their global expertise illuminated the latest investment trends and inspired a new wave of angel backing for Sri Lankan and regional startups.
Strengthening Local and Global Ties
For GBAN, the event also reaffirmed the importance of its Sri Lankan partner network, Lankan Angels, which is proud to be part of GEN’s worldwide community of angel networks. Their growing engagement demonstrates the collective strength of local ecosystems when connected to global platforms.
Looking Ahead
As Disrupt Asia 2025 showed, Sri Lanka is not just participating in Asia’s innovation story — it’s helping to write the next chapter. GBAN remains committed to supporting this journey by fostering cross-border collaboration, connecting investors with entrepreneurs, and promoting the exchange of knowledge across ecosystems.
“It was an honor to represent GBAN and GEN at Disrupt Asia 2025. The energy, ideas, and ambition I witnessed give me great confidence in the role Sri Lanka will play as a hub of innovation in the region,” Israel concluded.