Women entrepreneurs in Barishal are rapidly advancing as digital platforms, training support and growing local demand enable them to build businesses from home and create new jobs across the district.
Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) officials say women-led enterprises have already generated a market worth nearly Tk2.5 crore monthly in Barishal, with more than 300 entrepreneurs now running successful ventures in food, clothing, cosmetics, jewellery and handcrafted ornaments.
Entrepreneurs say technology has opened a pathway to financial independence, allowing them to manage families while earning from home.
One such entrepreneur is Lisa Yusuf, who began selling homemade burgers, ramen, singara, rolls and sweets through a Facebook page. Using delivery services, she now earns around Tk1 lakh per month.
“Managing a job outside the home was not possible while raising children,” Lisa said adding “So I started within my circle, and over the years the business has grown.”
Food entrepreneurs like her are now delivering orders to offices, universities and institutions across the city. Many participate in fairs to expand branding and customer networks.
Another entrepreneur, Ishrat Jahan, began by baking customised cakes at home. She later opened her own bakery, selling Tk1.5–2 lakh worth of cakes every month.
Many who started online have now established physical outlets, creating jobs for others. Rubayet Rafa, who does block-printing from home, earns around Tk1 lakh monthly, and says dozens of women in Barishal are now self-reliant.
“We are no longer behind. With some support, women entrepreneurs can play a major role in the country’s economy,” she said.
Barishal Women Chamber of Commerce President Bilkis Ahmed said food and clothing dominate local online demand.
“With most people shifting to online purchases, this sector is expanding. If banks extend more support, women entrepreneurs will progress much faster,” she said.
BSCIC Barishal Deputy General Manager Nazrul Islam said the agency is conducting various training programmes and offering low-interest loans to help women scale their businesses.
“BSCIC would continue to support women with skills, financing and guidance,” he said.
