Bangladesh's Rising Entrepreneurial Innovators

November 9, 2024

Bangladesh’s Rising Entrepreneurial Innovators are redefining the future. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Class of 2024, nine young Bangladeshis are showing how entrepreneurship can drive growth and address social issues. With a decade of strong GDP growth at 6.8% annually and a youthful population, Bangladesh is now redefining a new and emerging Asian innovation powerhouse.

Youth and Yunus becomes theme for Bangladesh’s Rising Entrepreneurial Innovators

These Forbes entrepreneurs celebrate success. That and the rising Bangladesh with the direction of Muhammad Yunus, represent a new resilience, creativity, and innovation found in policy and business collaboration with the power to transform communities and accelerate Bangladesh’s rise.

Ohidur Chad highlights Forbes 30 under 30 Asia’s 9 Bangladeshi’s in this introductory Youtube video.

Why Bangladesh’s Rising Entrepreneurial Innovators Matter Now

With over 50% of Bangladesh population under 25 and a growing startup scene, Bangladesh is ready to make its mark. These young innovators span industries like fintech, media, and social enterprise, embodying the country’s potential. Their Forbes recognition goes beyond personal success—it’s a signal of Bangladesh’s emergence as a hub for dynamic change.

A New Narrative for Bangladesh

The global spotlight on these entrepreneurs is transforming how the world views Bangladesh. Each of these innovators is breaking stereotypes, building new narratives, and positioning Bangladesh as a nation of resilience, ingenuity, and forward-thinking leadership. Their recognition in Forbes underscores the country’s readiness to play a major role in Asia’s economic growth and social development.

Meet the Changemakers: Visionaries for a New Bangladesh

1. Arts and Cultural Advocacy

“The media is giving women a stronger voice.”

~Anusha Alamgir

Anusha Alamgir – Elevating Bangladeshi Art

Architect-turned-artist Anusha Alamgir became the only Bangladeshi female artist at the 2023 Venice Biennale. Her film “Porda” explores the complex symbolism of Muslim veiling, challenging stereotypes and fostering cross-cultural empathy.

Anusha’s story exemplifies how art can capture a moment in time through art that sparks global conversations to redefine perceptions.

2. Technology for Social Good

Mehedi Shoron – AI Driven Safe Opportunity and Domestic Services with HelloTask

Mehedi Shoron co-founded HelloTask, an app offering on-demand domestic help, similar to “Uber for maid services.” Uses AI-driven IVR technology connects workers to jobs, overcoming smartphone barriers. With 100,000+ app downloads, $5.7M revenue, and 210% income increase, this service offers opportunity with social impact.

Partnered with World Bank, Oxfam, USAID, and national awards, HelloTask envisions revolutionizing the entire blue-collar sector. An Accelerating Asia Venture with the World Bank and Oxfam, HelloTask integrates safety features to protect workers, ensuring dignified employment. Shoron’s vision addresses real social issues, turning technology into a tool for positive change.

3. Media, Marketing, and Advocacy

Redwan Ahmed – Journalism for Social Impact

Redwan Ahmed, a United Nations fellow from the 78th session of the UN General Assembly and a freelance journalist from Bangladesh, has garnered international attention for his extensive reporting on critical issues such as the Rohingya refugee crisis, human rights violations, and domestic elections. His impactful coverage for global outlets earned him the prestigious 22nd Human Rights Press Award for his reporting on the Rohingya crisis with Agence France-Presse, highlighting his dedication to giving voice to marginalized communities and bringing urgent issues to the global stage.

Redwan Ahmed‘s journalism illuminates critical social issues, from the Rohingya crisis to Bangladeshi Garment labor industry exploitation. His work earned him the 22nd Human Rights Press Award, and as co-founder of the Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media group, he amplifies often-overlooked voices. Redwan’s reporting demonstrates how media can drive awareness and inspire change.

4. Fintech for Small Business Growth

“One of the biggest problems with initial adaptability is the aversion to technology for many merchants. Having limited exposure, they are scared of technology and are reluctant to use it. The merchants are losing a lot of money each day due to manual accounting faults. Through our business calculator, they can keep tabs on every single transaction. Even dues are stored, which are calculated and totaled after each new entry.”

~Mumtahina Anika, chief operations officer of Zatiq.

Sultan Moni and Mumtahina Anika – Financial Solutions with Zatiq

In Dhaka’s startup ecosystem, Sultan Moni and Mumtahina Anika launched Zatiq, a Dhaka-based fintech innovative startup offering user-friendly accounting tools for small businesses. With $1.6 million in pre-seed funding from Dekko ISHO Venture Capital, Zatiq frees entrepreneurs from complex financial tasks, empowering growth and innovation.

Fahad Ahmed – Revolutionizing Remittances with Wind.App

Fahad Ahmed‘s vision for Wind.App revolutionizes cross-border remittances, using blockchain to offer secure, affordable international transfers. With $3.8 million in pre-seed funding, Wind.App breaks down financial barriers, providing essential support for Bangladeshi expatriates and underserved communities.

5. Supporting Small Business Growth

Md Shahidul Islam, Abdul Gaffar Sadi, and Md Tushar – Enabling Growth with Drutoloan

To support small businesses, Md Shahidul Islam, Abdul Gaffar Sadi, and Md Tushar co-founded

Drutoloan, simplifying loans for small enterprises. With over $2 million in loans disbursed and recent $125,000 pre-seed funding, Drutoloan bridges gaps between small businesses and essential financing.

Why Bangladesh’s Rising Innovators Matter

These entrepreneurs are more than successful; they’re transforming Bangladesh’s future, creating economic opportunities, and inspiring social progress. Each innovator represents a forward step, shifting global perceptions of Bangladesh as a nation of creativity and resilience. Their recognition underscores the impact of supporting innovation in emerging markets.