In today’s fast-moving global digital economy, credibility and trust are everything—especially for Sri Lankan IT startups looking to scale beyond borders. One often-overlooked asset that adds immediate credibility to your business is the DUNS Number.
Whether you’re planning to partner with international platforms like Apple, respond to foreign tech tenders, or establish trust in global B2B ecosystems—having a DUNS Number is essential.
This blog explains what a DUNS Number is, why it’s important for tech startups, and how you can obtain one in Sri Lanka.
💼 What Is a DUNS Number?
A DUNS Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique 9-digit business identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), a global business data and analytics company. It is used worldwide to:
- Track and validate businesses
- Establish credibility
- Facilitate international trade, finance, and partnerships
🌐 Why Is a DUNS Number Important for IT Startups?
1️⃣ Access to International Platforms
To register as a company on platforms like the Apple Developer Program (Organization Account), a DUNS Number is mandatory. Without it, you cannot distribute apps under your company name.
✅ Example: Want to launch an iOS app under your IT firm’s name? You need a DUNS Number.
2️⃣ Build Global Trust & Transparency
Foreign clients, SaaS partners, and cloud providers often verify vendors using the D&B global database. A verified DUNS profile shows you’re a legitimate, structured business.
3️⃣ Participate in Global Tenders & Grants
Many international tech tenders, procurement processes, and government grants require vendors to have a DUNS Number for compliance and vetting.
📝 Some foreign embassies and aid organizations in Sri Lanka also verify vendors via DUNS.
4️⃣ Credit Profile for Your Company
Just like individuals have a credit score, businesses with a DUNS Number can build a commercial credit file. This helps when:
- Applying for financing or investment
- Seeking credit terms from suppliers
- Evaluating risk by potential partners
🇱🇰 DUNS Number & Sri Lankan Startups: What You Need
To apply for a DUNS Number in Sri Lanka, you must have:
- A registered company name
- A verifiable business address
- Contact details and nature of business
- Business registration certificate (e.g., from ROC)
🧾 How to Apply for a DUNS Number in Sri Lanka
🌐 Option 1: Online via D&B Global
- Go to https://www.dnb.com/duns-number/get-a-duns.html
- Select “I’m an international business”
- Choose Sri Lanka from the country list
- Fill out your business details
- Upload proof of registration (e.g., Form 15, Business Registration)
- Wait 5–10 business days for verification and DUNS assignment
✅ Usually free of charge for basic use (e.g., Apple registration).
🏆 Real Benefits for Sri Lankan Tech Founders
| Use Case | DUNS Required? | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Developer Organization | ✅ Yes | Mandatory to register under your company name |
| Foreign tenders/consulting bids | ✅ Often | Used to vet legitimacy and size of your business |
| Partnering with global platforms | ✅ Often | Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle may check DUNS profiles |
| Tech funding/grants | ✅ Sometimes | Required by donors or investors |
🔐 Bonus Tip: Keep Your DUNS Profile Updated
Once issued, your DUNS profile lives in the D&B database. Make sure to:
- Update your business address or contact details if they change
- Request a profile update if your team grows
- Add info about services, revenue, or awards to improve visibility
💡 Final Thoughts
In an era where your digital reputation matters as much as your digital product, a DUNS Number is a valuable startup asset. It’s free, fast to obtain, and unlocks a world of credibility for your Sri Lankan IT company.
Whether you’re a software startup, app developer, IT consultant, or SaaS provider, getting your DUNS Number today is a smart step toward going global.
🧭 Need Help?
At 360 Accountants, we assist Sri Lankan startups with:
- Company formation
- DUNS Number registration
- Apple Developer setup
- Tax and ROC compliance
📞 Contact us today and take your IT venture global—with the right business foundations.
