PKSF project boosts income of nearly 700,000 rural families

A six-year rural development project has improved the income and livelihoods of nearly 700,000 families by expanding agro-based enterprises and value chains, officials said at its closing event.

Implemented by Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), the Rural Microenterprise Transformation Project (RMTP) focused on boosting small entrepreneurs, improving food and nutrition conditions and strengthening agriculture-based value chains.

Speakers at the programme said the project has contributed to making the rural economy more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable.

The project was co-financed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development and Danida.

According to project data, RMTP engaged more than 750,000 participants through 90 agri-based value chain sub-projects. As a result, agricultural production increased by 66%, income rose by 49% and profits grew by 41%.

Financial Institutions Division Secretary Nazma Mobarek said the project demonstrated how planning, innovation and partnerships can significantly improve rural entrepreneurship and food security.

IFAD Bangladesh Country Director Valentine Achancho said the project serves as a practical model showing how finance, training and market linkages can drive lasting transformation.

PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan described RMTP as a successful model for sustainable change in the rural economy, adding that its initiatives will be expanded in future.

Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader said the project supported small entrepreneurs with financial services, technology, market access, branding and certification.

Entrepreneurs involved in the project shared how they moved from job seekers to job creators, with some gaining national recognition. Products such as cheese, processed beef and vegetables are now being exported, adding new momentum to Bangladesh's export potential.