Dhaka, Bangladesh: United Finance PLC has successfully disbursed its first startup loan under the Bangladesh Bank Special Startup Refinancing Scheme, marking a significant milestone in fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing financial inclusion across the country.
The inaugural cheque was handed over to Apontech, a social enterprise and fintech startup established in 2017. The company is widely recognized for its innovative “phygital” platform, which integrates physical and digital solutions to improve financial accessibility, affordability, and income opportunities for underserved communities.
Under this refinancing scheme, eligible startups are able to access financing at a preferential interest rate of just 4 percent. The initiative is designed to empower early-stage ventures, enabling them to scale sustainable and impactful business models with greater financial ease.
The cheque handover ceremony was attended by senior officials from Bangladesh Bank and United Finance. Nawshad Mustafa, Director of the SME & Special Programmes Department at Bangladesh Bank, was present as the Chief Guest, while Hafia Tazrean, Additional Director of the same department, attended as Special Guest.
Yasir Arafat, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Apontech, received the cheque on behalf of the organization. The event was chaired by Mohammed Abul Ahsan, Acting Managing Director of United Finance, alongside members of the company’s senior management team.
This initiative reflects a growing commitment from financial institutions and regulators to support innovation-driven enterprises, which are expected to play a key role in driving inclusive economic growth in Bangladesh.
