Bangladesh Bank, IPDC launch equity investment fund for startups
IPDC Finance PLC and Bangladesh Bank launched a Tk 500 crore Startup Equity Investment Fund to support innovative startups in Bangladesh.
The Bangladesh Bank created the revolving refinance scheme to prioritise women-led enterprises and provide access to low-cost financing and equity investments, thereby fostering a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Eligible startups must be Bangladeshi-registered, possess valid trade or RJSC licenses, and demonstrate innovation in products, services, or technology. Financing ranges from Tk 2 crore to Tk 8 crore at an interest rate of 4%. Entrepreneurs must be at least 21 years old.
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Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur called the fund a game-changer, poised to propel Bangladesh towards an inclusive, competitive economy by championing innovation, women's leadership, and disruptive ideas.
Rizwan Dawood Shams, managing director of IPDC Finance PLC, emphasised: "Through this partnership with Bangladesh Bank, we're fueling startups with more than just capital—we're igniting the confidence and opportunities they need to soar. Our mission is to spark entrepreneurs to transform ideas into ventures powering Bangladesh's economic rise."
The declaration event brought together a dynamic group of senior leaders, including Deputy Governor Nurun Nahar, Executive Director Husne Ara Shikha, Additional Director Muhammad Mustafizur Rahman, and Ashique Hossain, Deputy Managing Director of IPDC Finance.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Bangladesh's startup ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs to secure resources, innovate, scale businesses, and help drive long-term economic growth.
