The Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Daffodil International University and Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Bangladesh jointly hosted a roundtable discussion titled “SheMeansDigital – Breaking Barriers: What’s Holding Women Back in E-Commerce” on May 10, 2025, at Daffodil Plaza, Dhaka.

Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Chairman of GEN Bangladesh and Daffodil International University, presided over the event. Nawshad Mustafa, Director of the SME Division at Bangladesh Bank, was present as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Mohammad Nuruzzaman, CEO of Daffodil Family, delivered the keynote presentation.

The roundtable gathered a dynamic group of women entrepreneurs, industry leaders, policymakers, and ecosystem enablers who discussed the pressing challenges women face in digital business and e-commerce. Discussions focused on areas such as access to finance, digital literacy, policy reform, legal barriers, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive support systems.

In his speech, Dr. Sabur Khan emphasized the importance of building a digital ecosystem that fosters the active participation of women in business and innovation. Chief Guest Nawshad Mustafa reiterated Bangladesh Bank’s commitment to inclusive SME development and emphasized the need for tailored financial instruments for women-led enterprises.

This initiative aims to raise awareness, equip women entrepreneurs with practical skills, inspire action, and strengthen networks that support women in e-commerce.

Dr. Rubina Hossain, President, Bangladesh Federation of Women Entrepreneurs (BFWE), Munir Hasan, Chief Coordinator of Digital Transformation and Youth Activities of the Daily Prothom Alo, Sharmin Atik, Executive Vice President of Eastern Bnk Ltd. And Samiha Khan, Deputy Director of Band and Communication of Daffodil Family were present as the special guests. Moderated by K M Haan Ripon, Managing Director, GEN Bangladesh, the program was also addressed by Mohammad Kamruzzaman, Head, Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.