IPDC Finance supports exhibition to promote inclusive finance
Demonstrating a deep commitment to advancing women's economic empowerment and supporting women's banking and CMSME growth, IPDC Finance PLC took the lead as gold sponsor of the Women Summit and Exhibition 2026.
The two-day event was organised by Power of She. It took place on 9 and 10 May at Elite Convention Hall in Gulshan, Dhaka. The summit's theme was "Women's Role and Importance in the National Economy," with the slogan "She Leads, She Shines." It gathered a diverse range of participants.
The summit not only spotlighted women's contributions to the national economy but also fostered networking, mentorship, and opportunities for entrepreneurs, students, business leaders, and development stakeholders, helping participants access resources and guidance crucial to their growth.
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Media personality Naima Care moderated the opening day exhibition.
Power of She Trust Chairman Sabina Saby, fashion consultant and heritage textile expert SK Saifur Rahman, and General Secretary Raisul Hoque Chowdhury delivered the welcome remarks.
The event featured dialogue sessions on physical and mental health, entrepreneurship, and economic issues. Sifat Sarwar, Co-Founder of ShopUp, led a masterclass on women's entrepreneurship.
A highlight of the summit was the "Uddokta Hunt" competition. Student entrepreneurs presented business plans and worked with new women-led stalls. They gained practical experience in sales and customer engagement.
Jannati Eva, a student at Stamford University Bangladesh, was recognised as the best performer and awarded Tk 20,00000 to launch her venture.
The exhibition featured 38 stalls showcasing local craftsmanship and businesses. New entrepreneurs, acid survivors, and members of the third gender community received complimentary stalls.
Speakers at the dialogue sessions included fashion designer Bibi Russell, Lipi Khandokar, and Mamun Rashid, among others.
Fahmida Khan, Chief Financial Officer of IPDC Finance PLC, underscored that women's economic participation is central to financial inclusion.
"Women's economic participation is not just a development agenda; it is central to how we approach financial inclusion at IPDC. Platforms such as the Women Summit create tangible connections between aspiration and opportunity, and we are proud to have supported the initiative," she said.
IPDC Finance PLC explains that its sponsorship reflects a strategic focus on women banking and CMSME development, aiming to expand economic opportunities for women across Bangladesh.
Power of She is a women's development organisation founded in 2017 with the vision: "Empowering Women, Transforming Society." Since 2020, it has regularly organised the Women's Summit and Exhibition. This platform serves women entrepreneurs, advocates, and changemakers.
