e27 has been nurturing a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs since its inception. Our Contributor Programme offers a platform for sharing unique insights. As part of our ‘Contributor Spotlight’ series, we shine a spotlight on an outstanding contributor and dive into the vastness of their knowledge and expertise.

In this episode, we feature Chaminda Ranatunga, Managing Director of Investrust Capital in Sri Lanka and Managing Partner at Stratec Partners in Singapore. With more than 30 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, and structured finance across South and Southeast Asia, Ranatunga has advised on transactions exceeding US$300 million across diverse sectors.

He has led mandates for governments, development finance institutions, and corporates, and is an ACMA (UK) and MBA graduate from Trinity University in the United States. His expertise spans capital markets, private capital solutions, and sustainable investment strategies in emerging markets. He joined our contributor community through a writing sprint in May and has since been an active member, consistently engaging with monthly themes and offering perspectives that connect local insights to the wider Asia region.

In the sections below, he reflects on his journey, the lessons he’s learned, and what keeps him going.

How I got here

The turning point came when I left my role at an investment bank in Colombo to start my own firm. That decision gave me the freedom to align my work with my values and focus on shaping impact-driven investments.

If I had to explain my work to a kid

I help people with big ideas build them. It’s like giving someone Lego blocks and showing them how to turn those blocks into a castle.

Also Read: Slow, steady, sustainable: Southeast Asia’s bootstrapping movement

Lessons learned along the way

I once believed that deep expertise alone was enough to succeed. Over time, I’ve learned that adaptability and the willingness to unlearn are just as important for lasting relevance and impact.

What more people should notice

Renewable energy and climate tech solutions that are both affordable and scalable remain underexplored in South and Southeast Asia. There is immense potential in developing inclusive energy and finance models tailored for emerging markets.

Why I write

I aim to share a practical lens on startup finance, valuation, and capital raising, especially for founders navigating Southeast Asia’s complex landscape. Most of my writing begins with a conversation with a founder that sparks an insight I feel is worth sharing.

Also Read: Why investors are betting big on Asia’s social impact startups

My advice for aspiring thought leaders

Start by listening carefully. Good communication begins with understanding your audience and expressing complex ideas with simplicity and clarity.

What drives my curiosity

I’m exploring how regenerative agriculture and local food systems can become more resilient through technology and community-based models.

Influences that shaped me

Conversations with founders in underserved markets have shaped much of my perspective.

Lords of Finance by Liaquat Ahamed reminded me how leadership in financial systems can reshape entire economies, while Bad Blood by John Carreyrou offered a powerful lesson on the importance of transparency, ethical leadership, and rigorous due diligence in high-growth startups.

Take a look at Ranatunga’s articles here for more insights and perspectives on his expertise.

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