Short answer

• For SMEs (by lending volume, programs and awards): Commercial Bank of Ceylon (ComBank) — it’s been the largest lender to Sri Lankan SMEs and is repeatedly recognised for SME banking. (ceylontoday.lk)

• For early-stage startups (collateral‑free access, incubator links and targeted startup outreach): NDB Bank (notably its partnerships with Hatch and the National Credit Guarantee Institution) and state banks such as Bank of Ceylon (BOC) — both run specific startup/guarantee programmes. (businesscafe.lk)

Quick explanation and what to try next

• Commercial Bank: largest lender to SMEs in value terms (ComBank reported ~LKR 231.6 bn to SMEs in 2023 and has dedicated SME digital platforms, trade fairs and AI underwriting for SME credit). If you are an established SME seeking working capital, supply‑chain finance or export support, ComBank is a leading commercial choice. (ceylontoday.lk)

• NDB Bank: active in startup ecosystem partnerships (Hatch) and promoting NCGI-backed collateral‑free loans for startups — a good fit if you’re pre‑revenue or lack traditional collateral. NDB also positions itself as an SME partner via targeted programmes. (businesscafe.lk)

• Bank of Ceylon (state bank): runs SME/startup schemes (e.g., BOC Energizer) and has outreach to rural and micro entrepreneurs — useful for small start‑ups and rural businesses. (anybanq.lk)

How to pick the right bank for your business

• If you need large-scale SME lending, trade finance or export support → consider Commercial Bank (ComBank). (ceylontoday.lk)
• If you are an early-stage tech or innovation startup without collateral → prioritise banks/programmes working with NCGI and incubators (NDB + Hatch). (businesscafe.lk)
• If you’re rural/micro or need government‑linked schemes → look at Bank of Ceylon and other state banks. (anybanq.lk)

If you want, I can

• Compare the startup loan products, interest rates, collateral requirements and eligibility at ComBank, NDB and BOC side‑by‑side (I’ll pull the latest product pages and terms).
• Or find the nearest SME relationship manager or incubator partner contact for the bank you prefer.

Which would you like me to do next?