Empowering the Next Generation of MSMEs

Sohail R K Hussain
Managing Director
Bank Asia PLC. 

We expect MSME to become more technology-driven, formalised and better integrated into domestic and global value chains. At the same time, entrepreneurs will need to adapt to increasing competition, digital transformation, climate risks and changing market demands.

On MSME Day 2026, the focus is on a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs. To drive Bangladesh’s economy, these innovative MSMEs need a banking partner that matches their digital pace.

The Daily Star (TDS): How is your bank changing its plans to support this new group of young and modern entrepreneurs?

Sohail R K Hussain (SRKH): As we celebrate MSME Day 2026 under the theme “The Future Generation of MSMEs,” we recognize that today’s entrepreneurs are younger, digitally savvy, innovation-driven, and more ambitious than ever before. At Bank Asia, we are transforming our approach to meet these evolving needs. We are investing in digital banking capabilities to provide faster, simpler, and more accessible financial services. In parallel, Bank Asia has embarked on a comprehensive business transformation program with a strategic focus on increasing SME and retail portfolio to 40% of bank’s total portfolio over the next three to four years.

TDS:  It is often hard for to get loans. What new methods are you using to provide loans to very small (cottage/micro) businesses without requiring security (collateral) ?

SRKH: Access to finance remains a major challenge for cottage and micro enterprises. At Bank Asia, we are moving beyond traditional collateral-based lending by offering collateral-free loans to eligible CMSE customers, with greater emphasis on business viability, cash flow and repayment capacity.

TDS: How do you make sure that small businesses in remote villages get the same banking services and support as those in big cities?

SRKH: Bank Asia bridges the geographical gap by providing rural and urban entrepreneurs equal access to finance. Through our digital and agent banking networks, we bring formal financial services to underserved communities across Bangladesh.

TDS: This year focuses heavily on youth and women. What special loan packages or services do you offer to help young entrepreneurs and women grow their businesses?

SRKH: Bank Asia prioritises gender inclusion by offering women-led MSMEs tailored financing with preferential rates and credit guarantees. Beyond capital, we empower women, youth, and freelancers through financial literacy and skill-development programs to drive sustainable economic growth.