The Daily Corporate Desk
Dhaka, 20 September 2026: W.O.W Market’s (Women of Worth and Wonder) second edition of brought together women entrepreneurs, artisans and creators at Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan on Saturday, 19 September, providing a platform to showcase products, connect with customers and expand their businesses.
Runa Khan, founder of Friendship, inaugurated the event as the chief guest, according to a press release.
During the event, Khan visited the stalls and interacted with participating entrepreneurs, learning about their products, business journeys and experiences. Entrepreneurs highlighted the role of platforms such as W.O.W Market in helping women-led businesses gain visibility and connect directly with customers.
Several entrepreneurs who participated in the inaugural edition returned this year, noting that the platform had helped them showcase their products, build confidence and develop customer relationships.
The market is being organised as part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Giving for Good Month. Each participating entrepreneur contributes Tk3,000 towards their stall, with the full amount donated to Mojar School, while all sales proceeds go directly to the entrepreneurs.
This year’s marketplace features 30 stalls representing around 30 women entrepreneurs, offering handwoven and handmade clothing, jute and coconut husk crafts, homemade food products and other handcrafted items. Participating businesses include Dmart, Box of Ornaments, AURUM Bangladesh and Bene Bou, among others.
The first edition attracted more than 600 visitors and supported over 50 women by providing opportunities to showcase their skills and businesses.
Shahana Akter of Karukaj, who participated in the previous edition, said the event helped her showcase jute and coconut husk products from Barisal, while appreciation from buyers encouraged her to continue.
Kaniz Fatema of DMART said events of this nature create opportunities for women to contribute to the economy beyond their homes.
ActionAid and the Acid Survivors Foundation are also participating in the event, reinforcing its focus on women’s empowerment, inclusion and community impact.
Karthi VK, general manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, said W.O.W Market was built on the belief that women could turn their creativity and skills into meaningful opportunities when provided with the right platform.
He added that following the encouraging response to the first edition, the initiative had returned with a stronger focus on supporting women entrepreneurs and contributing to Mojar School through the Giving for Good programme.
