The Government of Bangladesh provides many supports to help small and medium businesses grow. Many entrepreneurs do not know about these supports or how to access them. This guide explains government facilities in simple English.
Step 1: SME Foundation Support
The SME Foundation is a government organization working to support SMEs.
Support provided:
- Entrepreneurship training
- Business development services
- Skill development programs
- Awareness on finance and market access
Official website:
https://smef.gov.bd/
Step 2: Government SME Loan and Refinance Schemes
The government supports SME loans through Bangladesh Bank.
Support includes:
- Low-interest SME loans
- Refinance schemes for banks
- Special loans for women entrepreneurs
Banks provide loans under these schemes.
Official source (Bangladesh Bank – SME):
https://www.bb.org.bd/en/site/page/smefinance
Step 3: Women Entrepreneur Support
Special incentives are provided for women entrepreneurs.
Facilities include:
- Lower interest rate loans
- Dedicated SME loan desks in banks
- Training and mentoring programs
Official source (Bangladesh Bank):
https://www.bb.org.bd/en/index.php
Step 4: Startup and Innovation Support
Government supports innovation and startups through different programs.
Support areas:
- Startup funding
- Innovation grants
- ICT and technology support
Government ICT support:
https://ictd.gov.bd/
Startup Bangladesh (ICT Division):
https://startupbangladesh.gov.bd/
Step 5: Tax Incentives and Facilities
Government provides tax benefits to SMEs.
Common facilities:
- Reduced tax rates for certain sectors
- Tax holidays for new industries (sector-based)
- VAT exemptions for selected products
Official tax authority:
https://nbr.gov.bd/
Step 6: Training and Skill Development Programs
Various government agencies provide training.
Support areas:
- Business management
- Accounting and tax awareness
- Marketing and digital skills
Training providers:
- SME Foundation
- Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC)
BSCIC official website:
https://bscic.gov.bd/
Step 7: Industrial Plots and Infrastructure Support
Government provides industrial facilities through BSCIC.
Support includes:
- Industrial plots
- Factory sheds
- Utility support
Official source:
https://bscic.gov.bd/
Step 8: Export and Market Access Support
Government helps SMEs access local and international markets.
Support includes:
- Export training
- Trade fair participation
- Market linkage support
Export Promotion Bureau (EPB):
https://epb.gov.bd/
Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make
- Not checking eligibility before applying
- Missing deadlines
- Not submitting complete documents
- Not following official instructions
Where to Get Official Help
SME Foundation Bangladesh:
https://smef.gov.bd/
Bangladesh Bank:
https://www.bb.org.bd/
Bangladesh Government Services Portal:
https://bangladesh.gov.bd/
Final Advice for Entrepreneurs
Check government programs regularly.
Apply only through official websites.
Prepare documents properly.
Attend training programs to improve business skills.
Ask for help from SME Foundation if confused.