On March 13, 2025, a Divisional Level Policy Dialogue on the SME Policy 2025 was organized in Sylhet by the SME Foundation and the International Labor Organization (ILO), with Innovision Consulting playing a key role in moderating the discussions. The event took place at the Rose View Hotel, Sylhet, and brought together key stakeholders to discuss the revision of Bangladesh’s National SME Policy.
The Ministry of Industries has initiated the revision of the National SME Policy 2019, with the SME Foundation providing crucial support. The dialogue aimed to gather insights from stakeholders involved in SME development across different regions of the country to formulate a more inclusive and implementable policy framework for small and medium entrepreneurs.
Md. Rubaiyath Sarwar, Managing Director of Innovision Consulting, moderated the discussions. Innovision Consulting, a key partner in this initiative, is working closely with the SME Foundation to create a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable business environment for SMEs.
Representatives from various ministries and departments, SME entrepreneurs, chambers and associations, banks and financial institutions, and other relevant stakeholders attended the event. Notable attendees included Mr. Ramendra Nath Biswas (Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Industries), Mr. Nazim Hasan Sattar (Deputy Managing Director, SME Foundation), Mr. Pedro Jr. Belen (Chief Technical Advisor, ProGRESS Project – ILO), and Ms. Riful Jannat (Senior Development Advisor, High Commission of Canada).
This policy dialogue marks a significant step toward shaping an SME policy that addresses the needs and aspirations of small and medium entrepreneurs in Bangladesh, ensuring their growth and contribution to the country’s economic development.