Startup Ecosystem of Bangladesh and My thoughts on this.
1. STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
An interconnected network of various stakeholders and elements that collectively support
and nurture the growth and development of startup companies. It's the environment in
which startups operate and flourish.
Universities and research
centers
Startup
Incubators
Mentor
Investor
Newly established companies
with innovative business ideas
Provide resources, mentorship, and
workspace to startups in their early stages,
often in exchange for equity
Experienced entrepreneurs
and professionals
Venture capitalists, angel investors,
and other funding sources
Government initiatives,
regulations, and policies
Legal, financial, and
marketing services
Education
Policy
Service
Media
Coverage and
exposure
G
H
A
B
C
D
E
F
2. STARTUP ECOSYSTEM OF BANGLADESH
12,000+
Active Startups
200+
Born Every Year
92%
Global
Investment
65Mn
USD
ICT Ministry
VC fund
Fintech
eCommerce
Logistics
Ed-Tech
Popular
Dhaka
Chattogram
Sylhet
Active
Cities
80Mn+
USD
Alternative
Investment Fund
200+ Active
Angels
308Mn+
USD
International VC
39Mn+
USD
Startup
Investment
Raised
30+
Incubators
&
Accelerators
1.5Mn+
Employment
Sources: ICT Division, Hi-Tech Park, The Daily Star, Daily Prothom Alo, The Financial Express, The Businesses
Standard
3. STARTUP ECOSYSTEM OF BANGLADESH
STRENGTHS
Emerging Talent Pool
Bangladesh has almost 35% youthful population, who are
motivated & gaining 21st-century skills.
Incubators and Accelerators
Incubators and accelerators such as Startup Dhaka,
BYLC and Grameenphone Accelerator have been
actively supporting early-stage companies.
Government Initiatives
The government has shown interest in promoting
entrepreneurship and innovation through various
programs and incentives.
Growing Number of Startups
The number of startups in Bangladesh has been steadily
increasing.
Innovations
Various sector is seeing significant innovation,
particularly in mobile banking and digital financial
services and Ed-Tech.
4. STARTUP ECOSYSTEM OF BANGLADESH
CHALLENGES
Infrastructure Issues
Early-
Stage Funding
Regulatory
Challenges
Educational Gaps
While access to capital is improving, early-stage startups may still struggle
to secure initial funding.
Limited access to reliable internet and other essential infrastructure can be a
hindrance, particularly in rural areas.
There is a need for more specialized training and educational programs
tailored to entrepreneurship and innovation.
Startups often face regulatory hurdles, which can hinder their growth and
innovation.
5. TRANSFORM BANGLADESH INTO A
SUSTAINABLE STARTUP AND INNOVATION
HUB
2. Streamline business registration and licensing processes to make it easier for startups to operate.
1. Promote lifelong learning and skill development to ensure a constant supply of skilled workers and innovators.
3. Implement regulatory policies that encourage innovation and protect intellectual property.
4. Offer tax incentives and grants to startups and investors.
5. Create a platform for crowdfunding and alternative financing methods.
6. Encourage research and development activities through public and private partnerships.
7. Set up innovation hubs and co-working spaces in collaboration with the public sector.
8. Foster international partnerships and connections to help startups access global markets and investment opportunities.
9. Set up innovation hubs and co-working spaces in collaboration with the public sector.
10. Provide access to relevant data and research to help startups make informed decisions.