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The internationally acclaimed business reality show, Shark Tank, has officially opened the doors to its Bangladeshi adaptation.

The internationally acclaimed business reality show, Shark Tank, has officially opened the doors to its Bangladeshi adaptation, inviting enterprising individuals from across the nation to participate in its first season.
Sony Pictures Entertainment and Bongo BD have inked a deal to introduce the popular reality show in the country with Robi on board as the ‘Title Sponsor’, supported by Startup Bangladesh as the ‘Powered by’ collaborator.
Registration Link: https://tu.bongobd.com/STBD

শুভ জন্মদিন, জাতির পিতা বঙ্গবন্ধু শেখ মুজিবুর রহমানের কনিষ্ঠ সন্তান শহীদ শেখ রাসেল।

শেখ রাসেল দীপ্তিময়
নির্ভীক নির্মল দুর্জয়

Shark Tank comes to Bangladesh

The globally acclaimed business show, ‘Shark Tank’, which has aired in over 40 countries, is set to have a localised version in Bangladesh. Sony Pictures Entertainment and Bongo has inked a deal to introduce the popular reality show in the country with Robi on board as the ‘Title Sponsor’, supported by Startup Bangladesh as the ‘Powered by’ collaborator.

The show’s premise involves budding entrepreneurs presenting their business ideas to a group of investors, dubbed the ‘Sharks’. These investors, who usually are accomplished entrepreneurs themselves, decide on whether to invest based on the potential they see in the pitch. Entrepreneurs could be showcasing anything from a novel product prototype, an existing product or service, or even a firm seeking capital to upscale its operations. The ultimate goal for these entrepreneurs is to secure investment and transform their ventures into recognisable brands.

Bongo is soon to reveal a panel of local ‘Sharks’, representing diverse sectors and industries, with the announcement slated for a future date.

The directorial reins for ‘Shark Tank Bangladesh’ have been handed to Gazi Shubro. Additionally, Bongo is collaborating with SBK Tech Ventures, drawing upon their deep-rooted experience with investments and startups in the country, to enhance the show’s production quality.

Ahad Bhai, Bongo’s CEO shared, “We are a very entrepreneurial and resourceful country, and as a proud Bangladeshi I felt that this show is the perfect platform to combine entertainment with improving the lives of our people. We are very proud and excited to get this off the ground.”

Sami Ahmed, Managing Director of Startup Bangladesh stated, “Shark Tank Bangladesh is poised to make waves in our entrepreneurial landscape, and we’re thrilled to bring this global phenomenon to our country. This initiative aligns perfectly with Startup Bangladesh’s mission of fostering innovation, supporting startups, and creating opportunities for our talented entrepreneurs to shine on a global stage. We believe that Shark Tank Bangladesh will not only inspire but also empower our local innovators to take their ideas to the next level, ultimately contributing to the growth and prosperity of our nation.”

In a press handout, Shihab Ahmad, Chief Commercial Officer of Robi, echoed similar sentiments and emphasised Robi’s pride in partnering with Bongo to launch ‘Shark Tank’ in Bangladesh and hopes it will inspire the nation’s youth.

Aspiring participants can submit their applications through sharktank.bongobd.com or the myrobi app. Bongo will also be organising open auditions nationwide, with further details to be disclosed soon.

Source:https://www.thedailystar.net/tech-startup/news/shark-tank-comes-bangladesh-3441421

Startup Bangladesh Collaborates in SDG Localization Consultation and Field Engagement

Catalyzing Local Impact: Startup Bangladesh Collaborates in SDG Localization Consultation and Field Engagement for Sustainable Development in Dumuria Upazila, Khulna.

The General Economics Division (GED) of the Planning Commission under the Ministry of Planning organized the “SDG Localization Consultation Meeting” on September 18th in Dhaka, followed by a visit to Dumuria Upazila, Khulna, on 19th September to assess SDG progress and engage with local focal persons. GED stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders for successful SDG localization. Startup Bangladesh participated in both events, bringing 10 startups to collaborate with Dumuria Upazila stakeholders and initiate pilot projects for business expansion.

Happy Birthday to The Honorable Prime Minister, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh H.E. Sheikh Hasina, MP

We wish you a very long and impactful life for many years to come !!

Startup Bangladesh Limited is excited to announce the launch of “Jelay Jelay Smart Uddyokta”

Startup Bangladesh Limited is excited to announce the launch of “Jelay Jelay Smart Uddyokta” as a Strategic Partner with GP Accelerator aimed at nurturing the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth.
This initiative aims to foster entrepreneurship to address regional challenges and build local innovative solutions. The program will engage 30 community builders and conduct pitch sessions at 20 locations, with the goal of identifying and rewarding the top 20 ideapreneurs.
Zunaid Ahmed Palak state minister of ICT Division graced the event as the chief guest. Also present at the ceremony were Sami Ahmed, managing director and CEO, of Startup Bangladesh; Yasir Azman, chief executive officer (CEO), Grameenphone and high officials from both organizations.

বাংলাদেশের স্টার্টআপে জাপানি বিনিয়োগ আহ্বান আইসিটি প্রতিমন্ত্রীর

দেশের উদীয়মান উদ্যোক্তা সংস্কৃতির উন্নয়নে সরকারের গৃহীত পরিকল্পনা এবং এর ফলে বিগত বছরগুলোতে বাংলাদেশের তথ্যপ্রযুক্তি খাতের ব্যাপক উন্নতির কথা তুলে ধরে এ খাতে বিনিয়োগে জাপানি বিনিয়োগকারীদের এগিয়ে আসার আহ্বান জানিয়েছেন বাংলাদেশের আইসিটি প্রতিমন্ত্রী জুনাইদ আহমেদ পলক।

জাপানি বিনিয়োগকারীদের উদ্দেশ্যে তিনি বলেছেন, বাংলাদেশে ২৫০০ এর বেশি সক্রিয় উদ্যোক্তা রয়েছেন। এছাড়াও প্রতিবছর ২০০টি নতুন উদ্যোগ যুক্ত হচ্ছে এই ইকো সিস্টেমে। এরমধ্যে চমৎকার কিছু স্টার্টআপ রয়েছে। তরুণরাই এ খাতে নেতৃত্ব দিচ্ছেন। তাই তাদের উদ্যোগ এগিয়ে নিতে জাপানের বিনিয়োগকারীরা এগিয়ে আসতে পারেন। কেননা, স্বাধীনতার পর থেকে গত কয়েক দশক ধরেই জাপান বাংলাদেশের পরীক্ষিত ও বিশ্বস্ত বন্ধু।

মঙ্গলবার (২৬ সেপ্টেম্বর) ‘বাংলাদেশে স্টার্টআপে বিনিয়োগের সুযোগ’ শীর্ষক ওয়েবিনারে প্রধান অতিথির বক্তব্যে এই আহ্বান জানান প্রতিমন্ত্রী।

তিনি বলেছেন, এরইমধ্যে জাপানে অবস্থিত বাংলাদেশী দূতাবাসের সাপোর্ট সেন্টারের কার্যক্রম উদ্যোক্তাদের জন্য আশা জাগানিয়া। আমি জেনে আনন্দিত হয়েছি, বাংলাদেশে ও জাপান দূতাবাস যৌথ অংশীদারিত্বে বেশ কিছু উদ্যোগও নিয়েছে। ব্যক্তিগতভাবে আমি এমন কিছু উদ্যোগে অংশও নিয়েছি। আমি বিশ্বাস করি, এই উদ্যোগ দ্বিপাক্ষিক বাণিজ্য ‍ও বিনিয়োগে যথেষ্ট প্রভাব ফেলবে। কেননা, এরই মধ্যে জাপান-বাংলাদেশ কৌশলগত অংশীদারিত্বের জন্য সরকারি পর্যায়ে ৮টি এবং বেসরকারি পর্যায়ে ১১টি সমঝোতা চুক্তি হয়েছে। একইসঙ্গে স্থানীয়ী আইসিটি খাতকে সমৃদ্ধ করতে সাইবার সুরক্ষাসহ তথ্যপ্রযুক্তি খাতে পারস্পরিক সহযোগিতা চুক্তি করেছে বেসিস ও জিসা।

Source: https://digibanglatech.news

Startup Bangladesh invests 5cr in Bongo to grow Digital Entertainment consumption in Bangladesh

Startup Bangladesh Limited, the pioneering venture capital company under the ICT Division, has announced a strategic investment in Bongo, the leading digital entertainment platform in Bangladesh. Startup Bangladesh co-led the Series B round with North Base Media, a firm specialized in global digital-media investments, and other high net-worth individuals and family offices. This collaborative endeavor aims to grow the landscape of online entertainment and content consumption in the country.

A formal agreement was inked between the two entities, for an investment of Five crore Bangladeshi Taka into Bongo’s growth and expansion plans, says a press release.

The signing ceremony took place in Dhaka, witnessed by distinguished guests including Honorable State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak, MP, ICT Division, Md. Shamsul Arefin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Startup Bangladesh and Senior Secretary of ICT Division; along with key figures such as Sami Ahmed, Managing Director of Startup Bangladesh; and representatives from Bongo including Mr. Navidul Huq, Co-founder, Mr. Fayaz Taher, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Mushfiqur Rahman, Chief Content Officer and Mr. Mamun Atik, Chief Business Development Officer among others.

Bongo has rapidly emerged as the go-to digital platform for entertainment, offering a vast array of local blockbuster originals and international content to millions of users across Bangladesh. From engaging web series, riveting dramas, to captivating movies and much more, Bongo has captured the hearts of the masses through its innovative approach to streaming.

“This partnership with Bongo exemplifies Startup Bangladesh’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting homegrown startups that cater to the diverse needs of our population. Bongo’s success story resonates with the vision of a Smart Bangladesh, and we are excited to play a role in amplifying their impact of home-grown solutions,” said Honorable State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak, MP, ICT Division.

“We are embarking on a transformative journey, driven by innovation and collaboration, as we partner with Bongo to reshape the digital entertainment landscape of Bangladesh. This strategic investment underscores our commitment to nurturing homegrown startups and fostering technological excellence, aligning with our vision of a Smart Bangladesh that thrives on cutting-edge solutions and enriching experiences for all.” Said Md. Shamsul Arefin, Secretary of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division.

Bongo’s journey in revolutionizing the entertainment industry aligns seamlessly with Startup Bangladesh’s mission to empower local startups that drive economic growth and technological advancement.

“We believe that Bongo’s innovative approach to entertainment delivery has the potential to redefine how Bangladeshi audiences consume content. Through this partnership, we aim to provide Bongo with the resources and support needed to further innovate and revolutionize the entertainment industry,” emphasized Sami Ahmed, Managing Director of Startup Bangladesh Limited.

“The collaboration between Startup Bangladesh and Bongo marks a significant milestone in our quest to transform the digital entertainment landscape of Bangladesh. We are thrilled to join hands with a partner that shares our vision of enriching lives through cutting-edge content and streaming technology which is all home grown,” stated Navidul Huq, Co-Founder of Bongo.

Startup Bangladesh’s investment in Bongo is a testament to its dedication to nurturing startups that push boundaries and contribute to a dynamic startup ecosystem in the country. This collaboration is expected to enhance Bongo’s technological infrastructure, expand its content library, and elevate the overall digital entertainment experience for its users.

With this strategic alliance, Startup Bangladesh and Bongo are poised to pave the way for a new era of digital entertainment, driving economic growth, technological advancement, and ultimately, contributing to the realization of the Smart Bangladesh vision.

Source: https://www.daily-sun.com/

Startup Bangladesh Invests in Online Pharmacy MedEasy

Startup Bangladesh Limited, the flagship venture capital company of the ICT Division invested in MedEasy, a leading online pharmacy startup in Bangladesh. This platform delivers authentic medicine at an affordable price all over Bangladesh.

An agreement was signed recently between the organizations in Dhaka to invest BDT 1 crore.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Md. Shamsul Arefin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Startup Bangladesh & Secretary of ICT division.Managing Director of Startup Bangladesh Sami Ahmed, Head of Portfolio Investment Hasan A. Arif and Chairman of MedEasy Md. Nazmul Hossain and Managing Director of MedEasy M.M. Arefin Zaman and other stakeholders were present on the occasion.

MedEasy is one of the most popular digital health platforms in Bangladesh. Their primary focus lies in delivering authentic and affordable medicines to customers’ doorsteps, sourced directly from trusted manufacturers. In a short span of just two years, MedEasy has successfully won the trust of over 150,000+ users, a testament to their commitment to providing top-notch healthcare solutions to the masses. With access to a diverse panel of 100+ licensed doctors, the customers can avail themselves of convenient video consultations for a wide range of medical needs from the MedEasy App. Additionally, they provide the facility of home sample collection for lab tests, partnering with leading hospitals to ensure accurate and reliable results.

Startup Bangladesh is the flagship venture capital company of ICT Division. Under the visionary guidance of Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Startup Bangladesh – the only venture capital fund sponsored by the government of the people’s republic of Bangladesh started its journey on March 2020 with an allocated capital of BDT 500 crore. In this effort to enable the nation to innovate faster, Startup Bangladesh has decided to invest 1 crore BDT in MedEasy after recognizing the potential of this startup.

“The work that MedEasy is doing in the Healthtech industry is highly commendable and the investment from Startup Bangladesh on MedEasy will help it to reach out to more customers. I hope that they will be able to make a deep impact in Smart Bangladesh implementation as a Startup. The ICT Division is working diligently in changing policies that assist the emerging and growing startups in many aspects.” mentioned Md. Shamsul Arefin, Secretary, ICT Division and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Startup Bangladesh.

“Startup Bangladesh aims to support homegrown startups to grow and reach heights that generate higher standards for more foreign Investment. We believe that MedEasy provides a solution that the Bangladesh market greatly needs. With the right strategy and focus, MedEasy should be able to make remarkable impact in the lives of the people of Bangladesh.”, said Sami Ahmed, Managing Director, Startup Bangladesh Limited.

M.M. Arefin Zaman, Managing Director of MedEasy said, “We are excited to have Startup Bangladesh Limited join our seed round along with some reputed international investors. Their investment and support will help us accelerate our growth and improve customer experience.”

Startup Bangladesh in its effort to build a vibrant startup ecosystem that nurtures digitalization, has been investing in most promising and impactful startups in Bangladesh and has continued that tradition by investing in MedEasy.

Source: https://en.techvision24.com

জাতির পিতা বঙ্গবন্ধু শেখ মুজিবুর রহমানসহ ১৯৭৫ সালের ১৫ আগস্ট এর সকল শহীদের প্রতি বিনম্র শ্রদ্ধা।