North South University turned its central plaza into a bright stage for young businesses when Startups Showcase opened, and the event showed how the NSU Startups Next incubator helps founders move from ideas to real companies that can attract investment. More than thirty ventures displayed their products and plans, mixing alumni startups and new teams from the Flagship and Founders’ Lab programs, and each team met mentors, investors and industry partners who offered advice and contacts. The portfolio included ideas across FinTech, intelligent systems using AI and deep tech, green technology and agri tech solutions that aim to make food systems stronger and climate friendly. Organisers said the showcase highlights ventures that are becoming investor ready and able to scale to wider markets. Samuel Mursalin, the incubator director, pointed to NSU’s strong record and reminded the audience that many well known companies began at the university. He said the incubator works to prepare founders to meet real market demands and to connect them with the right people who can fund and guide growth. Nusrat Aziz, programme coordinator, said the cohort was larger and more driven than before and that rapid mentoring in a short time can show fast progress when founders work hard. The event focused on clear, practical help like business pitching, product testing, feedback on market fit and steps to find customers and partners. During the showcase, teams explained how their services solve everyday problems, from better farm tools that save time and water to digital services that help small businesses and customers access credit. The presence of mentors and policymakers created useful conversations about regulation, market access and the skills new founders need to grow. Organisers also stressed the value of academic industry links that let students use university labs, receive coaching and test ideas with industry feedback. Startups said the chance to meet investors in person gave them fresh confidence and clear next steps to improve their products and prepare for funding rounds. Attendees left with new contacts, clearer plans and a stronger sense that local startups can compete on a global stage. The showcase underlined NSU Startups Next’s mission to build a steady pipeline of youth led companies that are sustainable, tech enabled and ready to bring jobs and services to the wider community. The event closed with a hopeful message that steady support, practical training and more chances to connect will help these young firms grow into lasting businesses. NSU alumni include founders of well known companies such as Pathao, Chaldal, Sharetrip, iFarmer, Truck Lagbe, Jatri and Barikoi, which shows what the incubator can achieve. Students and young founders said they feel encouraged to keep building and to test their ideas in real markets.
