UCB and Bangladesh Bank launch entrepreneurship development program under SICIP in Bogura

United Commercial Bank PLC (UCB), in partnership with Bangladesh Bank, has launched a month-long Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) in Bogura.

Supported by the Skills for Industry Competitiveness and Innovation Program (SICIP) of the Ministry of Finance, this initiative aims to empower aspiring and existing entrepreneurs currently outside the formal banking network, according to a press release.

The program is designed to provide participants with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to grow their businesses and access formal financial services—contributing to inclusive economic growth and job creation in the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials including Md. Shakhawat Hossain, Executive Director, Bangladesh Bank; Md. Nazrul Islam, Additional Director & Program Director, SICIP-PIU; Md. Ariful Islam, Deputy Director & Program Coordinator, SICIP-PIU; Mr. Adnan Masud, Additional Managing Director, UCB; Syed Hasnain Mamun, Chief Human Resource Officer, UCB; and Mohammad Salim Chowdhury, Head of SME & Agri Banking Division, UCB.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Shakhawat Hossain emphasized the importance of grassroots entrepreneurship in driving national development, while Mr. Adnan Masud reiterated UCB’s commitment to SME and agri-sector growth, calling the initiative “a bridge to financial inclusion and sustainable development.”

This collaboration reflects a shared vision to strengthen Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial landscape through strategic support and innovation.