A new survey presented at a youth summit revealed a large gap between what Bangladesh’s start-ups need and what they receive, showing a twelve billion dollar funding shortfall while the sector received just forty one million dollars, for founders. The research focused on green and climate friendly businesses and said funding for these ideas fell sharply from the year before. This drop makes it harder for young teams to move from prototypes to stable products and services. Organisers said local investors provided only two percent of the small total, while almost all support came from overseas, a pattern that could limit long term local ownership of growing companies. Despite the funding shortfall, the survey found clear market interest for greener goods and services. About seventy three percent of consumers said they would pay more for products that are better for the environment, including organic food and cleaner energy. That rising demand gives start ups a real chance to build businesses that both help the planet and make money. The report noted that national policies already offer green loans, start up funds and tax incentives that innovators can use to grow their work. International donors and climate finance programs also offer grants and low interest loans designed for small projects and early pilots. Experts at the event said these tools can be put together in new ways to support more local talent. Speakers urged practical steps to close the gap and said youth led ideas need easier access to small grants for testing in communities. They recommended youth focused green innovation funds to back many small projects rather than a few big bets. Several speakers called for stronger links between universities and start ups so students can test ideas with mentors and local partners. Another idea was to expand incubation centers and mentoring programs beyond the capital so talent across the country can get help. Building trust with local investors was seen as important for long term growth, including clearer rules and success stories that show local return on investment. Presenters pointed to global research which suggests millions of new green jobs could open, giving young people a chance to become job creators. Panelists said a mix of public funds, private investment and donor support can make growth steady and fair while keeping more ownership at home. They also urged NGOs, universities and social enterprises to work together to test community focused models and show what works. The mood at the summit stayed practical and hopeful because the steps needed are clear and doable. With clearer funds for green ideas, wider mentoring and more decentralised support, young entrepreneurs can turn climate challenges into new businesses that create jobs and lasting value.
