BRAC University's Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) partnered with KIIT-TBI, Odisha, and the U.S. Consulate Kolkata to host the Regional Startup Network (RSN) Formative Workshop in Bangladesh on 6 and 7 September. The event marked a significant milestone for the startup ecosystem not only in Bangladesh, but also across India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Day 1: 6 September 2023
The event began with an Inaugural Session featuring esteemed guests such as Mr Fahad Ifaz (CEO, iFarmer Asia); Mr Biplob Ghosh Rahul (CEO. eCourier Ltd), and Mr Minhaz Anwar (Chief Storyteller, BetterStories Ltd). Dr David Dowland (Registrar, BRAC University) graced the Inauguration ceremony as chief guest. Additionally, the event featured an enlightening address by Ms Elizabeth Lee (Public Affairs Officer and Director, American Centre at the US Consulate, Kolkata). Their insights set the stage for a transformative experience.
Following the inauguration, participants delved into a day of intensive workshops and knowledge sharing. Mr Minhaz Anwar led sessions on Idea & Product Validation, and Business Model and Planning. After a fulfilling lunch, Mr Md Rafiqul Islam (Head of HR, Eskayef Pharmaceuticals) enlightened attendees on Human Resource Management. The day continued with Mr Nafiul Alam Shupto (Associate, The Legal Circle) discussing Financial Compliances & Term Sheets, and Mr Siddhartho Goushami [Head of Operations, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship Academy (iDEA)], providing insights into the Incubation Ecosystem. The day concluded with refreshments and a networking session, fostering connections and collaboration among participants.
Day 2: 7 September 2023
Day 2 promised even more exciting sessions. Mr Soumya Mahapatra (Manager, Social Incubation, KIIT-TBI) kicked off with a recap and delved into the critical topic of ‘Protecting Your Idea’. Mr Deepesh Banik (Senior Project Manager, Soft BD Ltd) shared expertise in Branding, Marketing & Promotion, and Digital Marketing, providing strategies that could be applied across the region.
The afternoon saw participants preparing for the highlight of the event - Pitch Presentations. A jury panel of experts including Mr Md Dewan Adnan (Investment Manager, Startup Bangladesh Ltd) selected the top 5 participants among the present startups for the intensive boot camp to be held in Kolkata, India. The day wrapped up with a networking session, facilitating interactions and collaborations.