Flood-resilient women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is experiencing a devastating flood, one of the most extreme in recent years, causing widespread destruction across 11 districts in the eastern regions of the country. The elven districts are – Feni, Comilla, Chattagram, Noakhali, Cox’s Bazar, Khagrachori, Brahmanbara, Laksmipur, Moulovibazar, Hobiganj and Sylhet. According to a report released by the UN office in Dhaka on Friday (30th August 2024), citing the National Disaster Response Coordination Center (NDRCC), around 5.8 million people in the northeastern and southeastern regions have been affected, with over 1 million people stranded in communities cut off by the flooding. The report indicates that 502,501 people have been displaced and are currently taking shelter in 3,403 evacuation centers (The Dhaka Tribune; August 30, 2024). The death toll has risen to 67 including 7 women and 18 children (the daily Prothom Alo; September 02, 2024

The human toll, tragic as it is, is just one component of the widespread devastation caused by it as survivors now must focus on the painful process of recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction, with little help guaranteed. Many have lost their homes, livestock, and other belongings, and will need financialand institutional support to get back on their feet. A big part of the recovery also involves regaining livelihoods, especially for farmers, fishers, and other small earners. (The daily Star; August 29, 2024)

While many humanitarian organizations, NGOs, and CSOs have responded to the flood crisis with much-needed food and clothing aid, iEntreprene is taking a different approach by focusing on helping flood-affected individuals rebuild their livelihoods. Together with its partners, iEntreprene aims to support women entrepreneurs with micro-grant support that includes cash and capacity-uildingthrough mentoring. The focus will be on assisting small businesses that have lost their inventory and stocks by the flood.

Each recovery package costs 200 CHF, of which 150 CHF will be directly provided as cash to help people to rebuild their livelihood assets, and 50 CHF will fund capacity-building and follow-up support. Our goal is to raise 10,000 CHF to assist 50 women entrepreneurs affected by the flood. Organizations can sponsor any number of entrepreneurs, while individual donors are encouraged to contribute up to 50 CHF. Your generosity can make a lasting impact.

Objectives

➢ Develop a viable business plan for their business or business idea.

➢ Gain essential skills in business operations, marketing, and finance.

➢ Build a strong network of mentors, investors, and potential customers.

➢ Secure funding to launch or expand their business venture.

➢ Launch or scale up their business within a defined timeframe.