IPDC and Bangladesh Bank drive financial inclusion in Rajshahi
IPDC Finance PLC and Bangladesh Bank jointly organised an Entrepreneur-Banker Exchange Meeting in Rajshahi on February 12, 2025, to accelerate financing for entrepreneurs in the Rajshahi silk industry cluster and engage with pre-finance beneficiaries under the Tk 25,000 crore scheme.
The meeting was attended by key representatives from Bangladesh Bank, including Naushad Mustafa, Director of the SMESPD Department; Mohammad Nazmul Haque, Additional Director of SMESPD Department; Muhammad Mustafizur Rahman, Additional Director; Rahima Khatun, Joint Director of SMESPD Department; and Mohammad Mamunur Rashid, Joint Director, SMESPD Department. Also present were Md. Liaquat Ali, President, Bangladesh Resham Shilpa Malik Samity (BRSMS). The representatives of IPDC Finance PLC were Ashique Hossain, Deputy Managing Director, and Mohammad Mahmudur Rahman Shawon, Head of SME.
Seventy entrepreneurs and marginal farmers from the Rajshahi Silk Cluster and pre-finance beneficiaries participated in the discussions, sharing their challenges and aspirations. Key topics included obstacles to the silk industry's growth, potential solutions, and future initiatives by Bangladesh Bank and the Silk Board to sustain and expand the sector. Entrepreneurs also shared their business ideas, and Bangladesh Bank officials gathered insights on the impact of the 7% interest loan facility and future financing needs.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Mr Ashique Hossain, DMD of IPDC Finance PLC, said, "At IPDC, we believe in empowering entrepreneurs with the financial support they need to flourish. This initiative is about providing loans and building a sustainable future for businesses that drive our economy."
This exchange meeting marked a significant step toward fostering financial inclusion and sustainable growth for entrepreneurs in Rajshahi. By directly engaging with business owners, Bangladesh Bank and IPDC Finance reinforced their commitment to addressing challenges, enhancing financial accessibility, and driving the silk industry's and small businesses' long-term success.
