Agri-Founders Forge Future: Entrepreneurs, Investors and Experts Unite in Dhaka

A nationwide gathering of more than a hundred agritech entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners was held in Dhaka under the banner of “Agro-Founder Connect.” The event took place at the Interactive Cares Skill Center, where agricultural producers, agritech startup founders, and exporters shared their experiences, operational strategies, and success stories. The discussions also highlighted technology-driven production methods, sustainable farming practices, and expansion into new markets.

Throughout various sessions, experts addressed key challenges and opportunities in agriculture, agritech entrepreneurship, and agricultural exports. Muntasir Shakib Khan, Country Director of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), spoke on the potential of modern agricultural practices and digital tools. Zahidul Islam Jahid of Freshy Farm discussed opportunities in high-value agricultural products and pathways for empowering rural entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Zahid Hossain of Export Seba explained strategies for entering and expanding in international markets.

Participants emphasized value-added agricultural production, sustainable methods, and export readiness. The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment in which entrepreneurs exchanged insights, shared their challenges, and engaged in constructive dialogue.

Organized by Light of Hope Ventures on Friday, November 7, the event aimed to contribute to a stronger and more modern agricultural sector in Bangladesh. Speaking at the event, Waliullah Bhuiyan, Founder of Light of Hope Ventures, remarked, “The influential startups of the next generation in Bangladesh will emerge from the agricultural sector. Agro-innovation is not just about technology—it is crucial for improving livelihoods, strengthening climate resilience, and ensuring food security for millions of people.”

He further added, “Our goal is to build a platform where entrepreneurs can share ideas, form partnerships, and learn from one another. Light of Hope Ventures is committed to transforming these connections into meaningful, long-term impact.”

Positioning itself as a “Y Combinator” for Bangladesh’s SME ecosystem, Light of Hope Ventures provides mentorship, investment linkages, and support for entering new markets across agriculture, education, manufacturing, services, and emerging technologies. Currently, more than 1,000 startups and SME entrepreneurs across eight sectors are connected with the organization.