In a significant move to foster innovation and drive the growth of a knowledge-based digital economy, North South University Startups Next (NSUSN) partnered with the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority (BHTPA) to host a collaborative session titled “Entrepreneurs’ Innovation Engine: NSUSN and BHTPA.” The event, held recently at North South University (NSU), brought together academic leaders, government officials, and aspiring entrepreneurs under one roof.
The session aimed to introduce the concept and objectives of the Accelerating Bangladesh initiative—a national startup acceleration program spearheaded by BHTPA in collaboration with various partners. This ambitious program is designed to nurture the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering mentorship, early-stage funding opportunities, and national-level exposure to emerging innovators.
During the discussion, several crucial issues were addressed, including the role of higher education institutions in fostering entrepreneurship, the significance of collaboration between government bodies and universities, and ways to cultivate a culture of innovation, creative thinking, and problem-solving among students.
Participants also explored how students can actively engage in the Accelerating Bangladesh program and leverage its resources to turn ideas into impactful ventures. The session emphasized that inclusive and well-structured support systems are essential for transforming potential into progress.
One of the most impactful aspects of the event was the presence of visionary leaders who are shaping the direction of Bangladesh’s innovation landscape. Their insights added depth to the dialogue and inspired participants to think ambitiously.
Among the distinguished guests were Professor Dr. Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University; Dr. Mokhlesur Rahman, Senior Secretary at the Ministry of Public Administration; and Manzur Mohammad Shahriar, Project Director at the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority.
Speaking at the event, Manzur Mohammad Shahriar remarked, “The future of Bangladesh’s digital economy depends on the creativity and ambition of our youth. At BHTPA, we are committed to cultivating an environment where innovative talent can thrive. Our goal is to build a resilient and knowledge-driven development model that supports long-term growth.”
This session served as a timely and powerful reminder that strategic partnerships between academia, government, and the private sector are vital for building a strong startup ecosystem. For young entrepreneurs, educators, and policy leaders alike, the message was clear: collaboration is the key to unlocking the future of innovation in Bangladesh.
