BRAC Bank has launched the fourth edition of the ‘TARA Uddokta Mela 2026’, a three-day exhibition dedicated to promoting locally made products by women entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable market opportunities for them, according to a press release.
Inaugurated on 27 February 2026, the fair will remain open to the public until 1 March 2026, operating daily from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm at the Aloki Convention Centre, Tejgaon-Gulshan Link Road. Following the resounding success of previous editions, this initiative underscores BRAC Bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting women-led enterprises across Bangladesh.
The opening ceremony was graced by Meheriar M. Hasan, Chairperson of BRAC Bank. Independent Directors Lila Rashid and Anita Ghazi Rahman attended the event, alongside Tareq Refat Ullah Khan, Managing Director and CEO, and Syed Abdul Momen, Additional Managing Director and Head of SME Banking.
A total of 88 women entrepreneurs from various regions of Bangladesh are participating, exhibiting a diverse array of locally crafted products. These entrepreneurs are pivotal in preserving traditional craftsmanship while contributing to inclusive economic growth. BRAC Bank has continued its tradition of offering stall facilities free of charge, enabling participants to reach broader markets and increase visibility.
The exhibition features a rich selection of products, ranging from boutique and hand-stitched apparel to clay, jute, bamboo, and rattan crafts. Visitors can also explore leather goods, Jamdani and Muslin attire, organic skincare products, and traditional foods. Special Iftar and dinner food courts have been arranged, providing a lively atmosphere ahead of the upcoming Eid celebrations.
To advance digital financial inclusion, the fair supports QR code-based digital payments across all stalls. Purchases made via QR payments are eligible for discounts of up to 20%, helping women entrepreneurs transition towards a cashless economy.
| Category | Examples of Products | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Apparel & Textiles | Jamdani, Muslin, hand-stitched boutique clothing | Preserves heritage, supports local weavers |
| Crafts & Home Décor | Clay, jute, bamboo, rattan items | Promotes traditional craftsmanship |
| Skincare & Wellness | Organic skincare products | Encourages eco-friendly, sustainable goods |
| Food & Beverages | Traditional snacks, Iftar items | Showcases culinary heritage |
| Leather & Accessories | Handcrafted leather goods | Expands market for skilled artisans |
Commenting on the initiative, Tareq Refat Ullah Khan said, “Women entrepreneurs are key drivers of inclusive growth in the country. Through TARA Uddokta Mela, we are creating meaningful market access while preserving our rich heritage. This initiative reflects our long-term commitment to empowering women and enabling them to scale their businesses.”
As an SME-focused bank, BRAC Bank continues to provide platforms like this fair to empower women, stimulate local economies, and ensure inclusive growth throughout Bangladesh.