With a focus on strengthening financial security, supporting business growth, and encouraging a culture of savings among grassroots entrepreneurs, the Society for Development Initiatives (SDI) organized a unique symposium, a press release said.
Titled “Entrepreneurship and Savings: A Path to Growing Income and Securing the Future,” the workshop was held at SDI’s Integrated Resource Center (IRC) in Dhamrai.
The event brought together emerging grassroots entrepreneurs and savings group members from Dhamrai, Manikganj, and Savar, representing diverse professions and backgrounds. The central aim was to build awareness on how combining business activities with consistent savings can lead to a more secure and stable future.
Professor Dr. Md. Abul Hossain, Chairman of SDI, attended as the chief guest. Special guests included Ripa Monalisa, Joint Director of Bangladesh Bank, and Dewan Koushik Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge of Golra Highway Police Station. The session was chaired by Shamsul Haque, Founder and Executive Director of SDI.
The workshop unfolded in two segments. The first focused on the value of entrepreneurship, early-stage challenges, and real-life stories of business transformation. Participants actively contributed their own experiences and reflections.
The second segment addressed the practical side of savings—how regular contributions can build a solid financial base and support business expansion, handle emergencies, and ensure family stability. Examples and simple financial breakdowns were used to make the concepts relatable and clear. The sessions emphasized that treating savings and business planning as connected efforts can improve long-term outcomes.
Participants shared personal journeys. Entrepreneur Abul Karim noted, “Savings lie at the core of an entrepreneur’s success. If the business is managed well, success follows.”
Another entrepreneur from the Kawalipara branch said, “Running a business requires courage, calculated risk, and skills. With SDI’s support, I have expanded my business and now export my products abroad.”
Ripa Monalisa remarked, “Initiatives like this play a vital role in nurturing entrepreneurs and building a savings mindset.”
Dewan Koushik Ahmed added, “Increased savings can help entrepreneurs create more employment opportunities.”
Chief guest Professor Dr. Md. Abul Hossain emphasized, “Entrepreneurs must give due attention to savings to manage risks. It is essential for future security.”
Senior Director (General & Head of Human Resources) of SDI brought a broader perspective, stating: “Savings are not only important for business but for all aspects of life. Whether it is education, healthcare, family needs, or emergencies, having savings provides essential support when it is needed most.”
In his closing statement, Shamsul Haque said, “Entrepreneurs need clear planning in resource management, branding, marketing, and digital integration. Business generates income, while savings turn that income into future security.”
According to the organizers, such initiatives will continue to play an important role in making grassroots entrepreneurs more resilient and self-reliant.
