Meta and consulting firm LightCastle Partners have launched a small-business academy in Bangladesh to help entrepreneurs use artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools to reach customers, improve productivity and expand into new markets.
The Meta Small Business Growth Academy will provide hands-on training through workshops and local partner organisations, LightCastle said in a statement on Monday.
The programme will focus on strengthening businesses’ online presence, improving digital-platform skills, digital marketing, AI-powered tools, customer engagement and identifying new opportunities for business expansion.
The initiative comes as Bangladesh’s growing digital economy creates new channels for small businesses, including ready-made garment suppliers, agricultural producers and other entrepreneurs, to reach customers and expand their markets.
Meta Associate Public Policy Manager (South Asia) Tehara Punchihewa said the programme would help more entrepreneurs gain the practical skills and confidence to use Meta’s AI-powered tools, compete more effectively and tap opportunities in the digital economy.
The academy will operate in 12 Asia-Pacific countries and initially aims to support more than 10,000 businesses across the region. Training will be adapted to local market needs and business conditions in each country.
LightCastle Partners Co-Founder and CEO Bijon Islam said investing in grassroots entrepreneurs can strengthen communities and support more inclusive economic growth. The partnership aims to provide entrepreneurs with advice, insights and structured support to build competitive and sustainable businesses, he said.
The Bangladesh programme is part of Meta’s wider Asia-Pacific initiative, under which the company plans to work with governments, industry partners and local business organisations to help entrepreneurs develop practical digital skills.
