The Road to Equality: Supporting women entrepreneurs for a stronger future

As the world unites to celebrate International Women's Day on March 8, 2025, the theme "Accelerate Action" takes special significance for Bangladesh.

Women entrepreneurs across the country are driving change, breaking barriers, and redefining success in business. However, financial constraints, limited market access, bureaucratic challenges, and skill gaps often hinder their journey. With the proper support, these obstacles can become stepping stones to empowerment.

For years, Bangladeshi women have showcased extraordinary resilience in entrepreneurship, turning passions into successful ventures that generate employment, foster innovation, and strengthen the economy. Yet, access to capital remains a critical challenge. Traditional financial institutions frequently require collateral and credit histories that many women lack, preventing countless promising business ideas from reaching their full potential.

Beyond financial constraints, market access is another challenge. The ability to connect with the right customers, showcase products, and build networks determines the survival of any enterprise. Women entrepreneurs frequently navigate a competitive landscape without the necessary exposure or support to expand their reach. Opportunities to participate in business fairs, networking events, and skill-building initiatives are crucial to their success. Such platforms not only enable them to grow but also allow them to share experiences, learn from peers, and refine their strategies.

The technicalities of running a business—obtaining trade licenses, understanding tax regulations, and managing legal documentation—can be overwhelming. Many first-time women entrepreneurs face difficulties in navigating these processes, often leading to delays or even abandonment of their business aspirations. Advisory support that simplifies these legalities ensures that more women can formalise their enterprises, giving them the credibility and security needed to operate sustainably.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, staying ahead requires continuous learning. Women entrepreneurs increasingly use digital tools, e-commerce, and modern marketing strategies to enhance their businesses. Training programs focused on financial literacy, digital marketing, and online business management are invaluable, equipping them with the skills necessary to compete in an increasingly digital economy. When knowledge meets ambition, the possibilities become endless.

Recognising these challenges and opportunities, initiatives like "Joyee" by IPDC Finance PLC have been working to uplift women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh. Established in 2018, Joyee has provided thousands of women nationwide with tailored financial support, mentorship, and capacity-building services. Launching the "Joyee 360" sub-branch in Mirpur, Dhaka, marks another milestone in ensuring that specialised financial and business development services reach more women where they need them most. By fostering a supportive ecosystem, this initiative is accelerating progress toward gender equality in business.

International Women's Day is a moment to reflect on the strides made and the road ahead. Bangladesh's economic landscape is evolving, and women entrepreneurs are at the heart of this transformation. Their stories of resilience and success inspire new generations to break barriers and redefine what is possible. By continuing to champion women's empowerment, providing access to resources, and eliminating structural obstacles, the vision of an inclusive and prosperous Bangladesh is within reach.

As we embrace the spirit of "Accelerate Action," let us commit to fostering an environment where every woman with a dream can turn it into reality. The contributions of women entrepreneurs are not just shaping businesses; they are shaping the future of Bangladesh. This International Women's Day, let's not just celebrate their journey — stand with them, champion their ambitions, and commit to breaking down every barrier in their path. The future of Bangladesh depends on their success — and the time to act is now.