DHAKA, Aug 9, 2026 (BSS) - Small and medium-sized businesses in Bangladesh will receive hands-on training in digital platforms and AI-powered tools under a new programme aimed at helping entrepreneurs reach customers, improve productivity, strengthen marketing and expand into local and international markets.

International consulting firm LightCastle Partners, in partnership with global technology company Meta, has launched the Meta Small Business Growth Academy in Bangladesh to support the growth and expansion of small and medium-sized businesses across the country, said a press release today.

The programme will deliver workshops and activities through LightCastle Partners, focusing on helping entrepreneurs strengthen their online presence, reach potential customers through digital platforms and identify new business opportunities.

The initiative comes as Bangladesh's small and medium-sized business ecosystem grows alongside the country's expanding digital economy, creating opportunities for ready-made garment suppliers, agricultural producers, small entrepreneurs and other businesses to connect with customers and expand their operations.

The academy will provide practical training on strengthening online presence, improving digital platform capabilities, enhancing digital marketing effectiveness, increasing the use of AI-powered tools, improving customer engagement and identifying opportunities for business expansion.

Tehara Punchihewa, Associate Public Policy Manager at Meta, said small businesses use Meta's AI-enabled tools to reach customers and grow, adding that the academy would give more entrepreneurs practical skills and support to use the tools confidently and compete more effectively.

The Small Business Growth Academy will be implemented across 12 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, initially aiming to support more than 10,000 businesses across the region. Training programmes will be tailored to local markets and the specific business realities of each country.

Bijon Islam, CEO of LightCastle Partners, said investing in grassroots entrepreneurship transforms communities and drives inclusive economic progress, while the partnership aims to provide founders with mentorship, insights and structural support to build competitive enterprises and contribute to regional development.

The Bangladesh programme is part of Meta's broader Asia-Pacific initiative, through which Meta will work with governments, industry partners and local business organisations to help entrepreneurs develop practical skills to participate and thrive in the digital economy.