DHAKA, May 18, 2026, (BSS) - When it comes to women empowerment, Tangail district is gradually becoming an exemplary unit of women’s advancement in regard to financial solvency. 

Women entrepreneurs in the district are transforming the entire area’s economic landscape through fusion of traditional industries and modern technology, creating new opportunities in fashion, handloom, food processing, cosmetics, handicrafts and IT-based services. 

Women’s participation in Bangladesh’s socio-economic development is increasing steadily. Particularly in entrepreneurship, women are not only changing their own destinies but also reshaping families, society and local economies. 

Beyond Dhaka-centric initiatives, many successful women entrepreneurs are emerging at the district level, with Tangail standing out as one of the country’s most promising regions. 

Once confined mainly to household responsibilities, women in Tangail are now establishing strong positions in online business, fashion, handloom products, food processing, cosmetics, handicrafts and IT-based services. 

Relevant stakeholders said the expansion of internet access, the availability of technology, the rise of social media and support programmes for small entrepreneurs have opened new avenues of opportunity for women, and the trend is continuing to grow. 

Blending Tradition with Technology 

Tangail is widely known for its handloom industry and traditional sarees. The country’s heritage-rich Tangail saree has already gained international recognition. Discussions surrounding UNESCO cultural heritage recognition for Tangail saree weaving have further highlighted the sector globally. 

Many women entrepreneurs in Tangail are building their business identities around this heritage. While the handloom sector was once largely male-dominated, women are now leading not only in saree sales but also in design, marketing and online branding. 

Several online-based saree businesses in Tangail town are currently supplying products abroad. Locally operated saree shops and online platforms have created large wholesale and retail markets. 

From Facebook live to successful businesses 

Entrepreneurs said many women in Tangail started their businesses with very small investments. Some began selling sarees through Facebook live sessions from home, while others launched homemade food or boutique product ventures. 

Small online groups and communities of women entrepreneurs have now emerged across different parts of the district, where they support each other through sharing experiences in customer management and digital marketing. 

Women’s participation in online businesses increased significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many women who were previously homemakers are now gaining recognition as entrepreneurs. 

In areas such as Kalihati, Delduar, Sadar and Mirzapur, many women are selling products worth thousands to hundreds taka monthly from home. 

Local products are their biggest strength 

Relevant sources said one of the key reasons behind the success of women entrepreneurs is the use of local products. Tangail’s handloom products, Nakshi Kantha, handmade jewellery, honey, pickles, spices and homemade foods are now in demand across the country. Using online platforms, women are directly reaching consumers with these products. 

Many local entrepreneurs are also creating their own brands. Some are operating under names such as “Tangail Handloom” and “Heritage Saree,” while others run online pages under their personal names. The availability of digital payment systems and courier services has further accelerated business growth. 

Moving forward despite challenges 

The journey for women entrepreneurs is still not entirely easy. Family discouragement, lack of capital, social stigma and technological limitations continue to hinder many women. Some still face negative comments suggesting that business is “not women’s work.” 

However, women in Tangail are gradually overcoming these barriers. Many entrepreneurs said that although they initially lacked family support, their families later became their greatest strength after witnessing business success. 

Many women entrepreneurs are now also creating employment opportunities for other local women. Some are hiring handloom workers, others are teaching sewing, while many are involving women in packaging and delivery services. As a result, the women entrepreneurship movement is no longer limited to personal success; it is becoming an important part of the local economy. 

Technology training expanding opportunities 

Various government and non-government organisations are providing training and financial support programmes to women entrepreneurs. Many women are now managing their businesses more professionally after receiving training in digital marketing, e-commerce management, photography, content creation and online customer service. 

Among them is Samira Zuberi Himika. After completing her postgraduate studies at a private university, she joined UNDP. Later, she worked on projects with BBC World Service and Grameenphone. However, she always wanted to establish something of her own, which eventually led her to create “Team Engine,” an initiative that has already completed various projects at government and private levels. 

Many women entrepreneurs are no longer limited to Facebook; they are also operating websites, e-commerce platforms and international online marketplaces. Women entrepreneurs are playing an increasingly important role in expanding the online market for Tangail sarees and handloom products. 

Women becoming symbols of inspiration 

Successful Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs such as Taslima Miji, Samira Zuberi Himika, Sabila Inun and Ivy Haq Russell are inspiring the younger generation, while local women entrepreneurs in Tangail are also emerging as role models for young women in the district. 

Many young women who once waited for jobs are now starting businesses of their own. University students are also working as online entrepreneurs alongside their studies. This is increasing both self-reliance and self-confidence among women. 

A new horizon of possibilities 

Experts believe that with proper training, easy loan facilities and effective market management, Tangail could become one of the country’s leading centres for women entrepreneurs. Participation of women in handloom, handicrafts and online-based small businesses is expected to increase further in the coming years.