A nudge is all it needs sometimes to give life to an idea, floating around in the minds of many, that has never seen the limelight. SD Asia, a platform which provides mentorship, workshops and also works as a source of information for the start up community in Dhaka, is truly a light in darkness for those who desperately seek to start their own business.
The stirring enterprise gave solid ground to many thoughts, making the way for startups much smoother and giving it a major-obstacle absented beginning. With several large events like the Innovation Xtreme (the flagship event with international participants), Grameenphone Demo Day, Gist Bootcamp, Digibuzz and the latest 12 Week Bootcamp and Demo Day, SD Asia has impacted the startup space with major breakthroughs.
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with the enthralling man himself, Mustafizur Khan, founder and CEO of SD Asia, for a friendly tête-à-tête where he shared his thoughts and more.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I initially started my career as an entrepreneur and managed an engineering SBU and later on I engaged myself in managing brands like HSBC in several countries. I co-founded what many consider as, the coolest co-working space in Dhaka and also crowd funded and directed a documentary on tech startups in Dhaka which later pivoted to local a business news site called Startup Dhaka.My passion lies in technology and studying film in my spare time. I consider myself as an entrepreneur, angel investor, startup community organiser and a marketer.
Tell us a bit about the come-about of SD Asia
SD Asia, formally known as Startup Dhaka started off as a crowd funded documentary titled Startup Dhaka which rose over US$9000 from 56 backers from around the world. The film’s objective was to create awareness about startup community in Dhaka. After receiving positive reception and encouragement for the film, we pivoted to make an online content site to promote local ideas and businesses and to keep the story going. My co founders Samad Miraly and Fayaz Taher come from entrepreneurial family business backgrounds and are investors in Bangladesh's tech scene.
What does SD Asia focus on?
SD Asia is a content and event platform that helps connect entrepreneurs and investors. We want to make SD Asia the most innovative regional online content site for businesses supported by the community and entrepreneurs. Our principle’s built on supporting new technology, entrepreneurial culture and storytelling where the people participate. Our work has been featured in several international publications, which, at the end of the day, allows us to continue to connect, build and grow the tech industry in Bangladesh.
What are your future plans with SD Asia?
Later this year, we plan to launch a full-fledged accelerator for startups in Bangladesh. We are looking to connect with international investors and supporters interested in the growth of the Bangladesh tech ecosystem.
What is the main purpose of the “The Wave” initiative!
The Wave is a co-working and community space. It is also the permanent home of four startups- Magnito Digital, LightCastle Partners, StartupDhaka (SD ASIA), Root Marketing Services and an investment company Empty Ventures. The Wave is a space designed for action. Its purpose is to house and support doers, risk-takers, change-makers, future heroes at the beginnings of their journeys. It's a place for people that disrupt, stir things up, rattle the cage, that amplify the noise. It's a place for people that make waves.
Quick Questions:
1. Favorite movie - God Father by Francis Ford Coppola
2. Favorite song - Imagine by John Lenon
3. Hobbies- reading and watching film