DHAKA, Jan 15, 2026 (BSS) - The Insurance Innovation Challenge (IIC) was launched today in Dhaka by the SME Foundation (SMEF) under the Ministry of Industries, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen resilience among Cottage, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (CMSEs) through innovative insurance solutions. In these moments, the vulnerability of enterprises and families becomes inseparable.”Liller said, “Yet access to insurance for cottage, micro and small enterprises remains extremely limited, leaving livelihoods exposed. For this reason, UNDP and SME Foundation are launching the Insurance Innovation Challenge, to identify and scale innovative, regulator-approved insurance solutions that reflect how small enterprises truly operate”. Anwar Hossain Chowdhury, Managing Director, SME Foundation noted, “Marginal entrepreneurs face real financial risks, and addressing them remains a priority. This MoU reaffirms commitment of the UNDP and SME Foundation in supporting the climate vulnerable CMSEs in Bangladesh.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 15, 2026 13:55 UTC