Max Foundation hosts national workshop to empower micro-entrepreneurs in health sector

Max Foundation Bangladesh successfully hosted the Entrepreneur-Led Impact: National Workshop and Multistakeholder Dialogue under the theme "Empowering Entrepreneurs for a Healthier Bangladesh" on Tuesday at La Vita Hall, Hotel Lakeshore Grand, Dhaka. The event brought together over 120 participants, including policymakers, donor agencies, development partners, government representatives, corporates, ecosystem enablers, and micro-entrepreneurs from Khulna, Patuakhali, and Lalmonirhat.

Micro-entrepreneurs play a vital but often under-recognised role in Bangladesh's economy. The country has more than 10 million CMSMEs (cottage, micro, small, and medium enterprises), which contribute nearly 25% of GDP and employ around 30 million people, forming the backbone of rural and peri-urban livelihoods. In sectors such as WASH, food and nutrition security, and mother and adolescent health (MAH), micro-entrepreneurs act as last-mile service providers, delivering safe water, sanitary solutions, nutritious food, and basic health products to communities that might otherwise be left behind.

The workshop highlighted these stories of resilience and innovation through Ignite Talks, an interactive co-creation lab, and two high-level panel discussions. Participants examined systemic barriers – including limited access to finance and weak market linkages – and co-designed practical solutions to strengthen the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Dr Tariqul Islam Tariq, Country Director of Max Foundation Bangladesh, said: "This workshop has demonstrated the power of collaboration. By bringing micro-entrepreneurs together with policymakers, banks, corporates, and development partners, we are building a stronger ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship as a driver of both income and health impact."

The dialogue concluded with a shared set of commitments from stakeholders to support micro-entrepreneurs through improved financing options, stronger market linkages, and scalable business models. Insights from the sessions will guide Max Foundation's future advocacy and programming, ensuring entrepreneurs receive the support they need to thrive and contribute to a healthier, more inclusive Bangladesh.