Eastern Bank PLC recently celebrated the achievements of women entrepreneurs who successfully repaid loans under the Small Enterprise Refinance Scheme for Women Entrepreneurs, a targeted initiative launched by Bangladesh Bank to empower female-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The programme provides refinancing support to participating banks, enabling women entrepreneurs to access finance under favourable conditions and fostering sustainable business growth.
The recognition ceremony was held at EBL’s Chattogram office, where 52 women entrepreneurs attended to receive accolades for their disciplined repayment and overall business performance. Salekeen Ibrahim, Head of Asset at EBL, and Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, Branch Area Head for Chattogram, were present to honour the entrepreneurs and highlight their contributions to the local economy.
During the event, EBL officials emphasised that women-led SMEs are increasingly critical in sectors such as retail, handicrafts, tailoring, food processing, and small-scale manufacturing. Access to structured financing, combined with incentives for timely repayment, enables these enterprises to expand operations, create employment opportunities, and strengthen their market presence.
The programme also reflects the central bank’s broader goal of promoting financial inclusion and supporting women in entrepreneurship. By recognising entrepreneurs who demonstrate responsibility in loan management, the initiative encourages others to take advantage of similar financial opportunities.
Officials at the ceremony highlighted that the 52 honoured women not only successfully repaid their loans but also set an example of financial discipline and business resilience. EBL reaffirmed its commitment to providing continued support, including advisory services and specialised financial products, to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses and contribute to national economic development.
| Programme Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Small Enterprise Refinance Scheme for Women Entrepreneurs |
| Implementing Authority | Bangladesh Bank |
| Participating Bank | Eastern Bank PLC |
| Number of Entrepreneurs Recognised | 52 |
| Event Location | Chattogram Office, EBL |
The bank expressed confidence that initiatives like this will inspire more women to enter entrepreneurship, highlighting the positive impact of accessible credit and institutional support on empowering female-led businesses across Bangladesh.
This recognition reflects a growing trend in which women entrepreneurs are not only driving innovation in SMEs but also actively contributing to inclusive economic growth through disciplined financial management and enterprise development.
