FBCCI Tech-C starts journey to boost startups, SMEs

The FBCCI Tech-C,the technology center of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), has been launched to elevate micro, small, and medium enterprises (SME) and startups across the country.

Tech-C started its journey on Sunday at a soft launchevent in FBCCI Bhaban in the capital. 

"Tech-C will work to promote startups and create tech entrepreneurs in the country who can build a digital ecosystem, solve social problems of the masses, and also demonstrate explosive growth and show measurable and transformative impact," said FBCCI President Sheikh Fazle Fahim at the launching ceremony.

Tech-C will also highlight the role of technology in the economy and advocate rational policy solutions that drive economic growth, spur innovation and create jobs, said theFBCCI president. 

He also saidthe FBCCI plans to collaborate with and complement the existing startup ecosystem players in line with the country's strategy.

The president said that the nation's future economic success and competitiveness depend on technology, adding that data-driven innovation is currentlythe foundation of businesses.He further said that Tech-C will focus on people in marginalizedareas, so they do not lag behind in technology.

To train startup entrepreneurs, the apex body has signed agreements with University of Toronto, Accelerating Asia, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Seneca College.

Attending the event as the chief guest, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni praised Tech-C as a wonderful initiative taken by the FBCCI, which is aligned with the Digital Bangladesh agenda. It will provide the opportunity for relevant agencies to work with local talent.

She said the education ministry is also being prepared to adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, so such initiatives in technology, collaboration, and globalisationwill enable us to thrive.

State Minister for Information and Communication Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak said, "We have made good progress in technology – built a big mobile banking system across the country and the biggest local ride-sharing service company and so on."

"Technology will undoubtedly play a vital role in achieving Vision 2021 and Vision 2041, so we need a thriving innovative technology sector," he added.

In a presentation, FBCCI Advisor Sonia Bashir Kabir said, "Tech-C includes startup preparedness skills, digital financial service, health technology, education technology, e-commerce, and smart cities." 

"It will also help in developing artificial intelligence, ensuring cyber security, creating internet of things, adopting blockchain technology for private and public sectors, enhancing data analytics and enabling machine learning and tech vocational training," she added.