Community Bank unveils ‘Startup Nest’, first bank-led accelerator in Bangladesh

Community Bank Bangladesh PLC has launched Startup Nest, billed as the country's first bank-led accelerator dedicated to startup companies.

The programme was inaugurated during the bank's 6th anniversary celebration at Hotel InterContinental, Dhaka, in the presence of the Board of Directors.

Baharul Alam, BPM, Inspector General of Bangladesh Police and Chairman of Community Bank, formally launched the initiative before an audience of entrepreneurs, business leaders and distinguished guests.

Positioned to go beyond traditional finance, Startup Nest will offer participating ventures access to capital, tailored banking solutions, expert mentorship, and market linkages.

Startups will be embedded within the bank's operational ecosystem, enabling rapid account opening, payments and collections integration, and full use of Community Bank's digital APIs and fintech infrastructure.

In addition, the accelerator will deliver training in financial management, corporate skills, regulatory compliance, and scaling operations, led by Community Bank professionals and external trainers.

A core feature of the programme is strategic connectivity: startups will be introduced to the bank's corporate and SME client network to catalyse partnerships and accelerate go-to-market growth.

Speaking at the launch, Kimiwa Saddat, Managing Director (Current Charge) of Community Bank, said:
"Startup Nest is not just a financial initiative — it is a comprehensive platform to back the country's entrepreneurs with structure, guidance and access. Startups in Bangladesh need more than funding; they need mentorship, market access and institutional trust. Startup Nest is our commitment to bridging that gap."

By launching Startup Nest, Community Bank positions itself as a pioneer in redefining how banking institutions support entrepreneurship and innovation, marking a notable milestone in Bangladesh's startup journey.