iDEA launching platforms for young innovators, startups

To foster innovation among the country’s youth and help transform creative ideas into reality, the Innovation Design and Entrepreneurship Academy (iDEA) Project, under the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) of the ICT Division, is launching the National Youth Summit Startup Grant Programme.

As a key event of the 'Festival of Youth 2025', themed “Let’s Change the Nation, Let’s Change the World,” this initiative aims to be one of the largest platforms for young innovators and startups in Bangladesh.

The iDEA Project aims to elevate the power of youth to new heights through innovative initiatives with this exceptional event. By bringing together young entrepreneurs, startups, innovators, and students, this initiative seeks to further strengthen the country's startup ecosystem.

Through the National Youth Summit Startup Grant Programme, young entrepreneurs and startups will have the opportunity to receive grants of up to BDT 10 lakh for their innovative ideas. Applications for participation will open on February 5, 2025 and will continue until February 15, 2025.

In this regard, university activation campaigns will be organized at public and private universities across the country, including Dhaka. Through this campaign, there are plans to directly inform young students, innovators, and entrepreneurs about the National Youth Summit Startup Grant Program. Additionally, the campaign will also raise awareness among young entrepreneurs about the application process and other activities related to the program.

Innovators and startups from different industry categories, including healthcare, agriculture, education, climate, the garment industry, logistics, fintech, IT, e-commerce, etc., will be eligible to apply.

Applications will be evaluated by the sector experts and experienced judges, followed by a pitching round. The names of the grant recipients will be announced at the “National Youth Summit 2025.” Applicants may find more details on the iDEA Project’s official website (www.idea.gov.bd).

Notably, aside from the Startup Grant Programme, another major attraction of the summit will be the ‘iDEA Portfolio Startup Exhibition’, where young entrepreneurs will showcase their innovative products and services.

To inspire the next generation to embark on innovative ventures, success stories of startups that received grants from the iDEA Project will also be presented at the event.

Additionally, a special seminar titled ‘iDEA Project’s Impact to Build Bangladesh Startup Eco-System’ is also planned as part of the summit.

sajibur@gmail.com