Prime Bank has partnered with the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), University of Dhaka, to launch a specialized certification programme aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and business development skills in Bangladesh. The initiative, titled “Entrepreneurship and Business Development Certification Programme,” is part of Prime Bank’s broader mission to empower small businesses and startups through education and capacity-building. This programme is being conducted under Prime Bank’s “Prime Bank Foundation,” in collaboration with IBA’s Centre for Enterprise and Society (CES). Designed to nurture future business leaders, the certification offers aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners practical knowledge and tools needed to navigate Bangladesh’s dynamic business landscape. With sessions led by IBA faculty and industry experts, the course covers essential topics such as business model design, financial literacy, marketing strategies, digital tools, and scaling operations. It is structured to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that participants from various socio-economic backgrounds, including rural entrepreneurs, can benefit. One of the main goals of the programme is to bridge the gap between theoretical education and real-world business challenges. Participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences, including case studies and mentorship opportunities, helping them apply business concepts directly to their ventures. The certification aligns with Prime Bank’s long-standing commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly women-led businesses. The bank has already gained recognition for its “Neera” programme for women entrepreneurs and has extended financial literacy training and collateral-free loans to thousands of small businesses. The IBA partnership adds a layer of academic rigor to Prime Bank’s entrepreneurship efforts, making the certification more credible and appealing to both new and experienced business owners. It also contributes to a broader ecosystem of innovation and self-employment in Bangladesh, especially at a time when youth unemployment and job automation are pressing issues. This collaboration reflects how private banks and academic institutions can work together to support national development goals. By nurturing business talent, the programme also aligns with Bangladesh’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy by 2041. Participants who complete the certification will not only gain valuable insights but will also be better positioned to access financing and mentorship from Prime Bank. The practical knowledge acquired through the programme is expected to directly translate into stronger, more resilient businesses. In a growing economy where entrepreneurship is key to job creation and innovation, this initiative marks a significant step forward in cultivating the next generation of Bangladeshi business leaders.
