Indian High Commission hosts 'Startup Connect' with leading Bangladeshi startups

The High Commission of India in Dhaka hosted “Startup Connect” on Sunday, September 28, bringing together over 30 Bangladeshi startup founders and ecosystem leaders for a networking session aimed at exploring new partnerships.

The event highlighted the rapid growth of the startup ecosystem in both India and Bangladesh and the potential for collaboration in technological innovation and entrepreneurship. Speakers stressed that startups could act as bridges between the two neighbours, fostering cross-border partnerships and shared growth.

High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, addressing the programme, said that innovation-led growth would play a crucial role in shaping the future of India-Bangladesh relations. He noted that startups not only create jobs and solutions but also strengthen bilateral ties through new ideas and partnerships. He expressed hope that the “Startup Connect” initiative would contribute to a forward-looking narrative in the relationship between the two countries.

Several prominent voices from Bangladesh’s startup sector also spoke at the event. Habibullah N. Karim, Founder and CEO of Technohaven Company Ltd. and Senior Vice-President of the MCCI, discussed the rapid expansion of Bangladesh’s startup industry across multiple domains. Mirza Salman Hossain Beg, Co-founder of iKori and 10 Minute School, outlined opportunities for young entrepreneurs and shared examples of successful collaborations between India and Bangladesh. ShopUp Bangladesh’s Co-founder and CEO Ataur Rahim Chowdhury described his experience of working with India to access global technology talent and best practices.

Participants expressed confidence that such initiatives would enhance cross-border cooperation in innovation, funding, technological support, and market access.

The event also served as a prelude to the upcoming Tamil Nadu Global Startup Summit (TNGSS), scheduled for 9–10 October in Coimbatore, India. Recognised as one of the largest startup gatherings in the country, the summit will host delegates from 39 nations, including several Bangladeshi startups, offering them a platform to connect with investors, industry leaders, and potential business opportunities.