The SME Foundation is set to host the National SME Business Plan Competition 2025, marking the third installment of this innovative contest. Previously, the second edition took place in 2012.
Individuals looking to join the competition must complete their applications by November 20, 2025, using the specified format available on the SME Foundation’s official Facebook page and website. A selection committee will assess the submissions and compile an initial shortlist, as per an official statement.
Selected entrepreneurs will undergo training on MSME business plan development techniques, with details on the training schedule sent via correspondence. Notably, no stipend will be provided during the training period. Post-training, participants will have around a month to craft and submit their business plans adhering to the outlined criteria.
Emphasizing the importance of accuracy and credibility, all information, data, and research incorporated into the plans must be verifiable and sensible. A panel of distinguished professionals nationwide will evaluate the submissions, ultimately creating a final shortlist from which the champion will emerge after a pitch competition.
The top prize winner stands to secure Tk 5 lakh, with the runners-up receiving Tk 3 lakh and Tk 2 lakh for second and third place, respectively. Beyond the monetary rewards, the competition aims to equip MSME entrepreneurs with essential business planning skills to enhance their business acumen and operational efficiency.
Participants will gain insights into recognizing market needs, streamlining marketing and production activities, managing human resources effectively, setting achievable sales targets, optimizing resource utilization, evaluating and mitigating business risks, ensuring cost-effective production, conducting financial assessments like profit and loss calculations, and boosting overall productivity.