A randomized research experiment to measure the causal impact of micro-equity investments on firm investment and growth strategy. This was implemented though a partnership developed with the Chamber of Commerce of Hambantota to identify a potential investment pool.

These are all entrepreneurs who are well beyond the subsistence level, and are looking to make investments to set their business on a new growth trajectory. The Investments typically are aimed at buying some type of speciality equipment, which has a very limited re-sale market and costs between 350,000 and 1 million Sri Lankan Rupees (USD $3000-8000). The first legally registered joint venture agreement was signed in Feb 2013, with the auto-electrical firm in Hambanthota, for an amount of 500,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (US$4200). Eight further contracts for similar amounts have been signed.