BRAC Bank launches country's first SME innovation lab

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FE Team | Published: December 22, 2025 23:00:35

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BRAC Bank has launched the country's first SME innovation lab - "Finnovision" - to help small businesses thrive.
The initiative reinforces the bank's pioneering role in strengthening cottage, micro, small and medium enterprises (CMSMEs) through innovation, inclusion and sustainability solutions, according to a press release.
Bangladesh Bank Executive Director Husne Ara Shikha formally launched the SME innovation lab as the chief guest at a ceremony held at Lakeshore Hotel in the capital on Sunday.
Brac Bank Managing Director & CEO Tareq Refat Ullah Khan, Additional Managing Director and Head of SME Banking Syed Abdul Momen were present at the event alongside development partners and industry stakeholders.
Finnovision is a dedicated platform designed to test, refine, and scale solutions that address contemporary economic, social, and environmental challenges faced by CMSMEs. Harnessing the untapped potential of grassroots entrepreneurs, the lab focuses on four strategic priorities: closing the gender financing gap; fostering smart and sustainable agriculture; accelerating climate-resilient financing; and integrating cottage and microenterprises into the mainstream economy.
The lab follows a structured, impact-oriented approach. It begins with a comprehensive assessment of CMSME challenges, followed by the launch of problem statements and the shortlisting of enterprises for support. Selected businesses then enter a bootcamp phase, receiving hands-on training to formalise operations, strengthen bookkeeping, develop realistic cash-flow projections and craft growth strategies.