EBL Applauds Women SME Achievers

Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) has recognised a group of women entrepreneurs for their successful participation in a refinancing initiative designed to support small and medium enterprises led by women. The recognition was extended to entrepreneurs who fully repaid loans obtained under the Small Enterprise Refinance Scheme for Women Entrepreneurs, a programme backed by Bangladesh Bank to strengthen women’s economic participation and encourage responsible borrowing among small business owners.

The ceremony took place at the Chattogram office of Eastern Bank PLC, where several of the recognised entrepreneurs attended the event in person. The gathering celebrated their business resilience, financial discipline, and contributions to the local economy. According to a statement released by the bank, the honoured entrepreneurs had not only completed their loan repayments but also qualified for incentives offered through the refinancing scheme.

Among the officials present were Salekeen Ibrahim, Head of Asset at the bank, and Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, Branch Area Head for Chattogram. They congratulated the entrepreneurs and highlighted the importance of financial inclusion initiatives that enable women to establish and expand their businesses.

The refinancing programme was introduced by Bangladesh Bank to reduce barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing credit. By offering relatively favourable lending conditions through participating banks, the scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship, create employment opportunities, and enhance the contribution of small enterprises to the national economy.

During the event, bank officials emphasised that women-led businesses play an increasingly vital role in sectors such as retail trade, light manufacturing, food processing, tailoring, handicrafts, and services. Access to structured financing allows many entrepreneurs to formalise their operations, invest in equipment, and expand their market reach.

Officials also noted that the bank remains committed to supporting small and medium enterprises, particularly those managed by women. They encouraged more aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of specialised financial products, training opportunities, and advisory support offered through the banking system.

The ceremony honoured a total of 52 women entrepreneurs, reflecting a growing trend of successful loan utilisation and repayment among female business owners participating in development-oriented financing programmes.

Speakers at the event remarked that initiatives like this demonstrate how collaborative efforts between financial institutions and the central bank can create meaningful opportunities for women. By recognising disciplined borrowers and rewarding their achievements, the programme seeks to inspire more women to pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to sustainable economic growth.