PIM GENESIS
Innovate · Incubate · Inspire
Genesis Incubator transforms bold ideas into thriving ventures through expert mentoring, strategic networking, and hands-on business coaching.
Become a Member
WHAT WE OFFER
Mentoring
Our team of seasoned academics and industry practitioners walks with you from raw idea to operational enterprise. Through structured mentoring sessions, one-on-one consultations, and group workshops, we bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world execution
Networking
Genesis connects you with a vibrant ecosystem — fellow entrepreneurs, angel investors, corporate partners, trade associations, suppliers, buyers, and the extensive PIM alumni network. The right connection can change everything, and Genesis brings them all to your doorstep
Problem-Solving
Entrepreneurship is never a straight line. We anticipate the challenges you will face — funding gaps, market uncertainty, operational hurdles — and equip you with the decision-making frameworks and resilience to push through
Where Ideas Become Enterprises
Genesis is the business incubator of the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM), University of Sri Jayewardenepura — Sri Lanka's foremost management institution. We exist to turn bold ideas into viable businesses, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the guidance, networks, and real-world tools they need to thrive.
Whether you are a PIM learning partner with a transformative business concept, a recent graduate ready to take the entrepreneurial leap, or an external startup navigating the complexities of the market, Genesis is your launchpad.
INNOBIZ
Annual Startup Showcases celebrating the journeys of PIM Genesis entrepreneurs
INNOBIZ 3.0
Startup Showcase 2024
INNOBIZ 2.0
Startup Showcase 2023
INNOBIZ 1.0
Startup Showcase 2022
About Us
Genesis is not just an incubator — it is a movement. Born within the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM), University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Genesis was founded with a singular conviction: that the entrepreneurial spirit, when properly nurtured, can be a transformative force for individuals, organisations, and the nation.
What began as a structured support mechanism for PIM MBA learning partners pursuing Entrepreneurship Skills Research Projects has evolved into a dynamic, open-access incubation platform. Today, Genesis serves aspiring entrepreneurs both within and beyond PIM's walls, offering a continuum of support that spans idea screening, business proposal development, lean startup coaching, and post-launch mentoring.
Mission and Vision
Our Vision
To be Sri Lanka's most impactful university-based business incubator
A beacon of entrepreneurial excellence that inspires a new generation of value-creating enterprises.
Our Mission
To equip nascent entrepreneurs with the skills, mindset, and networks
Essential to navigate the complexities of today's business environment, while serving as a dynamic link between startups, academia, industry, and the broader innovation ecosystem.
What We Do
Genesis operates as a full-cycle entrepreneurship support system.
Idea Screening
We assess the viability and scalability of business concepts, helping entrepreneurs refine and sharpen their value propositions.
Learn more ➔Business Proposal Development
Structured coaching transforms rough ideas into investor-ready business proposals.
Learn more ➔Lean Startup Methodology
We champion evidence-based, iterative approaches to building ventures — test fast, learn faster, grow smarter.
Learn more ➔Mentoring & Coaching
Personalised guidance from faculty experts and industry mentors ensures entrepreneurs are never navigating alone.
Learn more ➔Network Access
Genesis connects startups with the PIM alumni network, angel investors, corporate partners, and industry associations.
Learn more ➔Post-Launch Support
Our commitment does not end at launch — we provide continued support as ventures scale.
Learn more ➔Our Team
Genesis is powered by a team of exceptional individuals — distinguished academics, dedicated staff, and passionate student leaders — united by a shared belief in the transformative potential of entrepreneurship. Together, they form the engine that drives every startup supported by Genesis.
Leadership Team
Dr. Asanga Ranasinghe
Director, PIM
Dr. Ravi Bamunusinghe
Senior Faculty, PIM
Dr. Travis Perera
Senior Faculty, PIM
Mr. Champal De Costa
Senior Faculty, PIMGenesis Governing Partners Leadership Team
The Genesis team is composed of MBA learning partners who bring energy, initiative, and specialised focus to every dimension of the incubator's operations. Each team member volunteers their expertise and time to strengthen the ecosystem that Genesis provides.
Lasitha Balasooriya
Founder
Iwantha Lekamge
Founder
Gamika Premarathne
Founder
Bathiya Rathnayake
Founder
Chamila Gamage
Founder
Shahira Ousman
Founder
Nuwanthi Warnakulasuriya
Founder
Malshi I. Wickramasooriya
FounderSERVICES From spark of inspiration to scaling enterprise.
Genesis delivers a comprehensive suite of entrepreneurship services designed to meet entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
Incubation Programs
Our flagship incubation programme provides selected startups with a structured, time-bound environment to develop their ventures with intensive support. Accepted startups receive dedicated workspace, access to expert mentors, funding guidance, and integration into the Genesis network. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — competitive cohort intake ensures every participant receives focused attention.
- Structured 6-month and 12-month incubation tracks
- Milestone-based progress review and accountability framework
- Access to co-working facilities at PIM
- Investor pitch preparation and demo day access
Mentorship & Coaching
Great mentors change the trajectory of businesses. Genesis curates a faculty of accomplished mentors — PIM academics, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs — who bring the wisdom of experience to every engagement.
- One-on-one mentoring matched by industry and domain expertise
- Specialised coaching in finance, marketing, operations, and HR
- Group coaching sessions on cross-cutting entrepreneurship themes
- Ongoing accountability check-ins between formal sessions
Co-working Space
A productive environment fuels productive ventures. Genesis members have access to a modern, collaborative co-working space at PIM that provides the infrastructure startups need without the overhead. Network with fellow entrepreneurs, hold client meetings, and do your best work in a community built for growth.The Genesis Hub features an ELF access door, and members can conveniently use face recognition technology to enter — making access seamless and secure around the clock.
- High-speed internet and meeting room access
- Printing, scanning, and administrative support facilities
- ELF access door with face recognition technology for secure, seamless entry
- Available on 7 days a week, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Resources
Tools, insights, and guides to support your startup journey.
Articles & Insights
Our knowledge base features regularly updated articles authored by PIM faculty and industry practitioners — covering topics from lean startup methodology and design thinking to financial modelling and digital marketing for growth-stage businesses.
Startup Guides
Step-by-step practical guides tailored for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs. Topics include company registration, tax obligations, investor term sheet navigation, hiring your first team, and building scalable operations from day one.
Entrepreneur News
Stay current with the latest developments in the Sri Lankan and global startup ecosystem — policy updates, funding rounds, new market opportunities, and trends shaping the future of business.
Innovation Stories
Inspiration backed by evidence. Read the stories of Genesis-supported entrepreneurs who have turned challenges into thriving enterprises. Every story is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and the power of the right support.
NETWORK
The Genesis network is one of Sri Lanka's most vibrant entrepreneurship communities — built on the foundation of PIM's decades-long legacy in management education and amplified by the diverse expertise of its members. Joining Genesis means joining a community that grows together.
Success Stories
Nothing speaks louder than real results. Our success stories section showcases the journeys of Genesis-supported entrepreneurs — from first-time founders who validated an idea in our co-working space to alumni who now lead thriving enterprises. These are not just testimonials; they are roadmaps.
Explore how a marketing professional pivoted to a sustainable fashion brand, how a PIM MBA graduate disrupted the logistics sector, and how a team of engineers built a SaaS platform serving clients across South Asia — all with Genesis in their corner.
Explore Success Stories ➔Testimonials
Hear directly from the entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners who have experienced the Genesis difference.
"What helped most was having mentors sit with us and challenge our assumptions. PIM Genesis pushed us to validate before we built. It saved us months of wasted effort and helped us get our business model right from the start."
"I came in with a passion for design but very little business sense. The sessions on financial planning and customer segmentation were things I never expected to need — but they changed everything about how I run my label."
"The business plan reviews at PIM Genesis were eye-opening. I thought I had everything figured out, but the lean startup framework they walked me through completely changed how I approached my pricing and product range."
"The theory and frameworks we got through PIM Genesis gave me the confidence to make better decisions. It's not a magic door to overnight success — but the guidance, the structure, and the honest feedback were exactly what a first-time founder needs."
Genesis has cultivated a rich ecosystem of partnerships that extends the resources available to every startup we support. Our partners include leading corporates, financial institutions, trade associations, technology providers, and fellow incubators across the region. Are you an organisation that believes in the power of entrepreneurship? Partner with Genesis to gain access to a pipeline of innovative startups, co-brand thought leadership initiatives, and contribute to building Sri Lanka's next generation of enterprises.
Explore Partnership Opportunities ➔Entrepreneur Community
The Genesis Entrepreneur Community is a curated peer network for current and alumni startups. Through regular meetups, collaborative problem-solving sessions, joint venture opportunities, and a private digital forum, community members support each other's growth. When one Genesis entrepreneur wins, the entire community moves forward.
Our mentor network brings together an exceptional cohort of business leaders, academics, and functional specialists committed to giving back through structured mentorship. Every mentor in the Genesis network is handpicked for their domain expertise, track record, and genuine commitment to the development of Sri Lanka's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Interested in becoming a Genesis mentor? We are always seeking experienced professionals who are passionate about shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Join as a Mentor ➔MEMBERS
Genesis membership is more than a programme enrolment — it is entry into a community of driven, like-minded individuals united by the ambition to build something meaningful.
Aaloka De Silva
Diamond International
Amila Ranasinghe
VegiCutz
Bathiya Rathnayake
Building Blocks Playhouse
Chamud Sathyapala
Trisenz Creatives
Gamika Premarathne
Tasseoz
Gayan Sanjaya
Foodmatrix
H G Chamal
YEZ Packaging Solutions
Iwantha Lekamge
Drubix
Kalhara Gurugamage
Carvee by Novatec
Kanchana Geethamalee
Kage Solutions
Kumuditha Perera
CarbonStroke
Lakshitha Cooray
Pixel One
Malshi I. Wickramasooriya
Loop Technologies
Nuwanthi Warnakulasuriya
Building Blocks Care
Paul Anton
Finreach Business Solutions
Pulasthi Wijayagunasekara
Bibiz Clothing Store
Raweendra L Weerasinghe
Riow Mart
R P T Buddika
Ceylon Tourlink
Shahira Ousman
TechC77
Supeshala Tiffany Silva
Tiffany and Sienna
Sushantha Alwis
Peoples Pulse
Thanuja Wijeratne
Wave Creations
Thaveen Goonarathna
Top Line Consultants
Thisara Kodithuwakku
Ceylon Red CherriesEVENTS
The Genesis network is one of Sri Lanka's most vibrant entrepreneurship communities — built on the foundation of PIM's legacy.
Events & Workshops
Our calendar of workshops covers the full spectrum of entrepreneurship essentials — from lean canvas development and financial modelling to branding, digital marketing, negotiation, and leadership. Each workshop is facilitated by subject matter experts and grounded in practical, immediately applicable learning.
- Monthly themed workshops aligned with the entrepreneurship journey stage
- Guest-facilitated masterclasses by industry practitioners
- Interactive case study sessions using real Sri Lankan business contexts
Upcoming Programs
Stay ahead of what is happening in the Genesis ecosystem. Our upcoming programmes section features the full schedule of incubation cohort intakes, workshops, networking events, mentoring sessions, and community initiatives.
View Full Events CalendarWebinars
Not in Colombo? No problem. Genesis hosts regular online webinars featuring expert speakers on topics ranging from startup fundraising and intellectual property to sustainability and digital transformation. All webinars are recorded and made available to Genesis members on demand.
Hackathons & Competitions
Innovation thrives under pressure. Genesis organises hackathons and competitions that challenge participants to develop and pitch solutions to real business and social challenges — in compressed time frames that replicate the intensity of the startup world.
- Annual Genesis Innovation Challenge — open to all PIM learning partners and alumni
- Sector-specific hackathons co-hosted with corporate partners
- National and international competition preparation support
Event Gallery
Relive the energy of past Genesis events through our photo gallery. From packed lecture halls to intense showcase pitches, the gallery captures the spirit of a community in full stride.
CONTACT US
We would love to hear from you. Whether you are exploring the Genesis incubation programme, seeking mentorship, interested in partnership opportunities, or simply want to learn more about what Genesis offers — our team is here and ready to engage.
Genesis Incubator
- Institution: Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM)
- Address: 28, Lesley Ranagala Mawatha, Colombo 08, Western Province, Sri Lanka
- Tel: +94 112 689639
- Email: genesis@pim.sjp.ac.lk
- Web: genesis.pim.sjp.ac.lk
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
VISIT US
We welcome visits from prospective applicants, partners, and friends of Genesis. PIM is located in the heart of Colombo, easily accessible by public and private transport. To arrange a facility tour, request a slot below.
Request a VisitFrequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about our incubation cycles and entry requirements.
Who can apply to Genesis?
Genesis is open to driven entrepreneurs across multiple backgrounds. If you fall into any of the following categories, we encourage you to apply: PIM MBA Learning Partners who are actively pursuing ESRP entrepreneurship projects, PIM Alumni with active ongoing ventures, and PIM Faculty & Staff who are members of the PIM academic and administrative community. We welcome applicants from all sectors and stages of development — whether you're just starting out or scaling an existing venture. Membership is completely free, and the Genesis Membership application is your first step toward joining a thriving entrepreneurial community.
What support does Genesis provide?
Genesis provides structured incubation programmes, one-on-one mentoring, access to co-working space, resource libraries, investor network introductions, and a vibrant entrepreneurship community. The specific support package depends on your programme track.
Is there a cost to join Genesis?
Joining Genesis is completely free for all eligible members. Genesis membership is exclusively open to the PIM community, including current learning partners, ESRP participants, alumni, staff, and faculty. If you are part of the PIM family, access to our resources, events, mentoring programmes, community forums, and incubation support comes at absolutely no cost.
How often are incubation cohorts accepted?
Genesis conducts intake processes on a scheduled basis throughout the academic year. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media for announcements on upcoming intake dates.
Can established businesses join Genesis?
Absolutely. Our acceleration track is designed specifically for ventures that have achieved initial market traction and are ready to scale. If your business is operational and growth-hungry, we want to hear from you.
Location Map
We are situated at Lesley Ranagala Mawatha, Colombo 08. Use the coordinates or request a scheduled visit to meet with our incubation coordinators.
Schedule Tour