DUEDC hosts Powerpreneur 4.0 grand finale, drawing nationwide participation

The Grand Finale of Gold Kinen Presents Powerpreneur 4.0, the national startup and business analysis competition of the Dhaka University Entrepreneurship Development Club (DUEDC), was held on January 4, 2026, at the Professor Dr. Abdullah Farouk Multipurpose Hall, Faculty of Business Studies, University of Dhaka.

The competition brought together students from universities and colleges across the country, reinforcing DUEDC's mission to nurture entrepreneurial mindsets through skills development, mentorship, and industry exposure. A total of 145 teams—115 from universities and 30 from colleges—registered for the fourth edition, representing 49 districts nationwide.

Powerpreneur 4.0 began with a series of interactive online sessions conducted by professionals and industry experts. These sessions focused on analytical thinking, strategy development, communication skills, and practical business knowledge. After multiple screening rounds, the strongest teams advanced to the final stage, where selected finalists presented their ideas at the grand finale.

The event opened with remarks from DUEDC Moderator Dr. Mohammad Thoufiqul Islam, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Management at the University of Dhaka. He encouraged students to develop entrepreneurial courage early and pursue innovation with consistency. Following pitch presentations by six finalist teams, the judges commended the participants for their creativity, analytical strength, and commitment, while providing feedback for future improvement.

In the Green Technology, Digital Innovation, and EdTech Solutions category, Team Miners emerged as champion, winning BDT 15,000 and a one-gram gold bar, while Team Ackerman finished as runners-up, receiving BDT 10,000 and a half-gram gold bar. In the Sustainable Food, Agriculture and Nutrition Ecosystem category, Finish the Juice won the championship and Syndicate X secured the runners-up position, with the same prize structure awarded. DUEDC also presented Best Campus Ambassador Awards to eight ambassadors from different institutions.

The grand finale was attended by Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, PhD, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial leadership, innovation, and analytical excellence in achieving sustainable national development. The event was also attended by guests from academia, government, development organisations, and the private sector.

Powerpreneur 4.0 was organised in association with Excellence Bangladesh, with support from partners including GAIN, Youth Network Bangladesh, SME Foundation as strategic partner, and The Daily Star as media partner. The organisers said the competition reaffirmed DUEDC's commitment to empowering young people and strengthening Bangladesh's startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem.