DHAKA, May 17, 2026 (BSS) — Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) PLC and Swisscontact Bangladesh today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at connecting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with the capital market and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Bangladesh.

The agreement was signed at a ceremony attended by senior officials from both organizations, said a press release. 

The MoU was signed by DSE Managing Director Nujhat Anwar and Swisscontact Bangladesh Country Director Helal Hossain.

Speaking at the event, Nujhat Anwar said the initiative was implemented quickly through strong coordination and careful planning between the two organizations. 

She noted that the partnership would contribute significantly to the development of the SME sector by strengthening capacity development, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance, which are essential for increasing SME participation in the capital market.

Describing SMEs as the driving force of Bangladesh’s economy, Helal Hossain said they continue to face challenges in financing, competitiveness, and compliance. 

He stressed the need for alternative financing opportunities and equity-based capital in the present economic context. 

He expressed confidence that the collaboration with the DSE would help promising SMEs access the capital market and ensure their long-term sustainability.

Under the agreement, the two organizations will primarily focus on the ready-made garments, healthcare, and agriculture sectors. 

They will also jointly work on initiatives related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, sustainability reporting, entrepreneurship development, financial inclusion, climate resilience, trade support, and skill development.

As part of the collaboration, DSE and Swisscontact will organize capacity-building programs, awareness workshops, incubation support, and advisory services to encourage more institutions to seek listing on the stock exchange. 

The partnership will further support the development of innovative sustainable investment instruments, including Green Bonds, Sustainability-linked Bonds, Sukuk, and blended-finance models.

The initiative is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s financial infrastructure by integrating more enterprises into the capital market ecosystem and supporting long-term economic resilience and sustainability.