Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is expanding its # SheMeansBusiness program to Bangladesh to provide women entrepreneurs with the skills, connections, and technology needed to build and grow their businesses online.
It has been launched in partnership with the ICT Division’s Aspire to Innovate (a2i) program, the Bangladesh Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BWCCI), and LightCastle Partners, according to a press release.
Small and medium businesses are the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, contributing close to 25% of the country’s GDP.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, local entrepreneurs faced unparalleled challenges, especially women-owned businesses.
Many have adopted online platforms to stay resilient and continue engaging with customers.
Beth Ann Lim, director of Policy Programs and Government Outreach for the Asia Pacific and Global Head of # SheMeansBusiness at Meta, said: "Every day, we see women entrepreneurs overcoming odds and coming online to build their businesses. This not only transforms their lives and communities but also has an overwhelmingly positive impact on the economy. We are excited to bring our # SheMeansBusiness program to Bangladesh as part of Meta’s commitment to support women-owned businesses and help propel the country towards a more resilient, inclusive, and digital future."
According to Meta’s analysis, more than 70% of female-led businesses on Facebook in Bangladesh were set up during the pandemic.
Since 2021, women have created 40% of the country’s entrepreneurship-focused Facebook groups.
Anir Chowdhury, policy advisor at Aspire Innovate under the ICT Division and Cabinet Division, said: "Even though small businesses are using online platforms, there is a gap in knowledge on how to leverage digital tools effectively to engage with existing and potential customers and expand businesses. We are happy to partner with Meta and help provide access to a series of workshops and online learning tools that will help Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs survive and thrive."
Selima Ahmad MP, President, and Founder of BWCCI said: "Successful women entrepreneurs contribute to their families’ well-being and the country’s economy. We are excited to work with Meta to empower more women in both urban and rural areas with skills and resources so they can lead by example."
#SheMeansBusiness is now active in 38 countries around the world.
Meta and its network of partners have trained more than one million women globally.
Today, Bangladeshi women are joining the community.
