What Are Startups? Understanding Bangladesh’s Startup Ecosystem
In recent years, Bangladesh has become one of South Asia’s most promising startup hubs. From fintech and Agritech to e-commerce and Edtech, thousands of new ventures are emerging to solve local problems with innovative digital solutions. But before we dive into the local startup scene, let’s understand — what exactly is a startup?
What Is a Startup?
A startup is a newly established company that aims to develop an innovative product, service, or business model. Startups usually begin small but have the potential to grow quickly and scale across regions or even globally.
In Bangladesh, startups are more than just small businesses — they’re driven by innovation, technology, and impact. These companies often use digital tools to address problems in education, healthcare, finance, agriculture, and transportation.
Examples include:
- Pathao – Making transportation and logistics easier
- iFarmer – Empowering farmers through digital finance
- Maya – Connecting people to doctors through mobile apps
Why Startups Matter for Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s economy is growing fast, but traditional industries can’t always keep up with the needs of its young and tech-savvy population. Startups fill this gap by:
- Creating Employment: Thousands of youths are finding jobs in tech startups and digital service companies.
- Encouraging Innovation: Local entrepreneurs are solving real-world problems with smart ideas.
- Supporting Financial Inclusion: Fintech startups like Nagad and bKash are helping millions go cashless.
- Empowering Rural Communities: AgriTech startups like iFarmer are transforming rural economies.
- Promoting Global Recognition: Bangladeshi startups are now being listed in Forbes Asia 100 to Watch — a sign of growing global attention.
The Growth of Bangladesh’s Startup Ecosystem
According to local sources, Bangladesh now has over 1,200 registered startups operating across various sectors. The government, private investors, and foreign venture capital firms are showing increasing interest in nurturing the ecosystem.
Key Drivers of Growth:
- Digital Bangladesh Vision 2041: A national goal to make Bangladesh a smart, tech-driven economy.
- Improved Internet Access: Widespread smartphone and broadband usage in urban and rural areas.
- Youth Entrepreneurship: Over 60% of Bangladesh’s population is under 35 — energetic, creative, and digitally skilled.
- Investment Support: Local incubators like Startup Bangladesh Limited and Bangladesh Angels Network are funding early-stage ventures.
Top Sectors Where Bangladeshi Startups Are Growing
- FinTech (Financial Technology):
Startups like Nagad, bKash, and ShopUp are revolutionizing digital payment systems and SME support. - AgriTech (Agriculture Innovation):
Companies like iFarmer and KrishiHub are modernizing farming with data analytics, financing, and supply chain support. - HealthTech:
Maya and DocTime are providing telemedicine and mental health support via mobile apps. - EdTech (Education Technology):
Startups like Shikho and 10 Minute School are transforming learning through interactive digital education. - E-commerce & Logistics:
Platforms like Chaldal and Pathao are simplifying shopping and delivery for millions of Bangladeshis.
Startup Funding and Investment in Bangladesh
Bangladeshi startups are attracting both local and international investors. In recent years, startups such as ShopUp and Pathao have raised multi-million-dollar funding rounds from foreign venture capitalists.
The government-backed Startup Bangladesh Limited fund has also invested in several promising local ventures, boosting confidence in the ecosystem.
Common Startup Funding Stages:
- Seed Stage: Idea validation and early development.
- Series A/B/C: Scaling operations and expanding markets.
- IPO or Acquisition: Long-term growth or exit phase.
Challenges Faced by Startups in Bangladesh
While the progress is inspiring, startups still face several challenges:
- Limited access to venture capital and mentorship
- Complex regulations for small businesses
- Inconsistent internet connectivity in rural areas
- Talent shortages in advanced tech fields
However, with growing government support and rising private investment, many of these issues are gradually improving.
The Future of Startups in Bangladesh
The next five years look incredibly promising. As Bangladesh continues its journey toward becoming a Smart Nation, startups will play a key role in digital transformation.
We can expect more AI-driven, green energy, and export-oriented startups in sectors like EVs, sustainable manufacturing, and health innovation.
Bangladesh’s young entrepreneurs are not just building businesses — they’re building a brighter, more inclusive future.
Top 10 Emerging Startups in Bangladesh (2025): Driving Innovation and Growth
Top 10 Emerging Startups in Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem has grown rapidly in the last few years. From Dhaka’s bustling tech hubs to rural innovation labs, local startups are transforming everything — from agriculture to education and digital finance. These new ventures not only create jobs but also represent Bangladesh’s vision for a digital future.
Below are the top 10 emerging startups in Bangladesh that are leading the way in 2025.
1. Tiger New Energy
Sector: Electric Vehicle (EV) & Renewable Energy
Headquarters: Dhaka
Tiger New Energy is redefining the EV landscape in Bangladesh by introducing battery-swapping stations for electric vehicles. The startup is solving the biggest problem for EV owners — limited battery range — and has been recognized by Forbes Asia 100 to Watch. With Bangladesh pushing for greener mobility, Tiger New Energy stands out as a leader in clean energy innovation.
2. iFarmer
Sector: AgriTech / Finance for Farmers
Headquarters: Dhaka
iFarmer is a pioneer in digital agriculture in Bangladesh, connecting farmers with investors, input suppliers, and buyers. The platform empowers smallholder farmers with financing, market access, and data-driven advice — making agriculture smarter and more profitable.
3. Shomvob
Sector: HRTech / Employment Platform
Shomvob helps job seekers, freelancers, and gig workers find better opportunities through AI-driven skill matching and upskilling. As Bangladesh’s workforce goes digital, Shomvob is bridging the gap between talent and opportunity — particularly for youth and women in rural areas.
4. Pathao
Sector: Ride-Sharing, Logistics & FinTech
Pathao started as a ride-sharing startup in Dhaka and has evolved into a super app offering parcel delivery, food delivery, and digital payments. It’s now one of Bangladesh’s most successful homegrown brands, competing with global giants while serving millions locally.
5. ShopUp
Sector: B2B Commerce / SME Support
ShopUp is helping thousands of small and medium businesses by providing digital tools, logistics, and working capital. Through its platform, ShopUp connects retailers with suppliers, financial services, and delivery networks — driving small business growth across the country.
6. Chaldal
Sector: E-commerce / Grocery Delivery
Chaldal has revolutionized the way Bangladeshis shop for groceries. Using smart logistics and local warehouse networks, it delivers daily essentials to thousands of homes in Dhaka and beyond. With a growing customer base, Chaldal is a major player in Bangladesh’s e-commerce boom.
7. Shikho
Sector: EdTech / Online Learning
Shikho is one of the top education technology startups in Bangladesh, offering interactive lessons, animated videos, and live tutoring. With more students turning to digital learning, Shikho is helping transform how Bangladesh learns — from cities to remote villages.
8. Sheba.xyz
Sector: Service Marketplace / On-Demand Services
Sheba.xyz connects customers with verified professionals for home and office services such as plumbing, cleaning, and repair. The startup has built trust in urban communities by ensuring quality and safety — empowering local service providers along the way.
9. Maya
Sector: HealthTech / Telemedicine
Maya is making healthcare accessible for everyone in Bangladesh through telemedicine and AI-based health consultation. Users can chat anonymously with certified doctors, mental health experts, and nutritionists. In a country where healthcare access is limited, Maya’s impact is transformative.
10. Nagad
Sector: FinTech / Mobile Financial Services
Nagad has become Bangladesh’s fastest-growing mobile financial service (MFS). By offering fast, low-cost, and secure digital transactions, it’s helping millions of Bangladeshis go cashless. The company recently achieved unicorn status, proving that FinTech innovation thrives locally.
Bngladesh’s Startup Future Looks Bright
The rise of these startups reflects Bangladesh’s growing entrepreneurial spirit and digital transformation. With support from local investors, government policies, and a tech-savvy youth population, Bangladesh is becoming one of South Asia’s most promising startup ecosystems.
