Published: 11:35 PM, 27 August 2026
Government Should Back Up Young Entrepreneurs
Young entrepreneurs are increasingly becoming a powerful force in Bangladesh’s economic development. With a large and energetic youth population, the country has a valuable opportunity to create employment, encourage innovation and build a more diversified economy. However, many young people with promising business ideas struggle because of limited capital, inadequate training, complicated regulations and insufficient guidance. Therefore, the government should provide stronger and more practical support to young entrepreneurs. Bangladesh’s young generation has shown considerable creativity in areas such as information technology, e-commerce, agriculture, fintech, education, food processing and small manufacturing. According to recent studies, entrepreneurship can help address youth unemployment while contributing to inclusive economic growth. The biggest obstacle for many young entrepreneurs is access to finance.
A 2026 survey reported that 86 percent of entrepreneurs identified shortage of capital as their main challenge. Banks often require collateral and complicated documentation, which inexperienced entrepreneurs may not possess. The government should therefore expand low-interest loans, credit guarantees, seed funding and startup grants, especially for first-time entrepreneurs and those from rural areas. Training is equally important. Many young people have innovative ideas but lack knowledge of accounting, marketing, business planning, taxation and customer management. Universities, technical institutions and youth development programs should provide practical entrepreneurship education and connect students with experienced mentors. The government’s current EARN project, which includes training, mentoring and seed financing for selected young entrepreneurs, is a positive step in this direction. The government should also simplify business registration, licensing and taxation.
Excessive bureaucracy discourages young people from entering the formal economy. A transparent one-stop digital service could save time, reduce costs and limit opportunities for corruption. Bangladesh also needs stronger links among entrepreneurs, universities, investors and industries. Recently introduced initiatives such as the National Startup and Entrepreneurship Platform aim to bring government services, training, mentoring and investment opportunities together. Supporting young entrepreneurs is not merely a matter of helping individuals. Successful businesses create jobs, increase production, introduce new technologies and strengthen local communities. Therefore, government support should focus on building an environment where good ideas can become sustainable enterprises.
