To meet banking needs of rapidly evolving Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector, Midland Bank PLC transforms its strategy to support a new generation of technology-driven entrepreneurs.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Midland Bank PLC Imtiaz Uddin Ahmed said this in an interview with The Financial Express (FE), marking the MSME Day 2026.
In line with the MSME Day 2026 theme, "The Future Generation of MSMEs, he said the bank is transforming its MSME strategy to support a new generation of technology-driven entrepreneurs. "Our focus is on digital financing, innovation-led businesses, concessional refinance facilities, and financial literacy initiatives that help young entrepreneurs turn ideas into sustainable enterprises."
He said access to finance remains one of the biggest challenges for cottage and micro enterprises. To address this, Midland Bank has introduced digital lending solutions, including the MDB Digital Nano Loan (Midland e-Loan), which utilises transaction-based credit assessment rather than traditional collateral.
Through a simple and paperless process, he said, eligible customers can access instant financing, while the bank's agent banking network helps previously unbanked entrepreneurs enter the formal financial system and build credit histories.
About ensuring rural-urban financial inclusion, he said financial inclusion is a core priority for Midland Bank. Through our extensive agent banking network, digital platforms, and partnerships with fintech service providers, they keeps bringing modern banking services closer to entrepreneurs in rural and semi-urban areas.
"We strive to ensure that MSMEs across Bangladesh have equal access to financing, payment solutions, and business support regardless of location," he said.
Replying the bank's current measures to empower young and women entrepreneurs, the experienced banker said women and youth represent the future of Bangladesh's MSME sector. Midland Bank offers dedicated products such as MDB Start-up, MDB IT Uddog and MDB NariUddog to address their unique financial needs.
"We also support financial literacy and entrepreneurship awareness programs to help aspiring entrepreneurs develop the skills and confidence required for long-term success," he said.
For promoting sustainable and responsible growth, the seasoned banker said sustainability is embedded in their business strategy. They actively support renewable energy, energy-efficiency projects, and environmentally responsible enterprises through dedicated green financing programs. In addition, environmental and social risk assessments are incorporated into our lending decisions, ensuring that business growth is aligned with responsible and sustainable development.
Talking about the prospects of MSMEs financing in the coming years, he said that over the next five years, Bangladesh's MSME sector is expected to become more digital, formalised, and globally connected.
He said they anticipate increased adoption of digital financial services, stronger integration into supply chains, and the emergence of more technology-focused startups. "Midland Bank is preparing for this transition by strengthening digital lending capabilities, expanding refinance-supported financing, promoting green investments, and enhancing cash-management solutions for businesses," he said.
When his attention was drawn on leveraging AI and digital innovation, he said technology is reshaping the way MSMEs access financial services. Midland Bank is leveraging AI-driven credit assessment, e-KYC, API-enabled integrations, and real-time loan disbursement systems to simplify and accelerate the lending process. These innovations reduce turnaround times, improve customer experience, and enable entrepreneurs to access financing more efficiently, helping them focus on growing their businesses.
"At Midland Bank, we view MSMEs not only as business entities but as key drivers of employment, innovation, and inclusive economic growth. We remain committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs through accessible finance, digital innovation, and sustainable banking solutions," he added.
jubairfe1980@gmail.com
