Yunus urges IFAD to launch social business fund for young agri-entrepreneurs

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to create a social business fund to support young agricultural entrepreneurs, women, farmers, and food processors in Bangladesh.He made the call during a meeting with IFAD President Alvaro Lario on Sunday on the sidelines of the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy.I encourage you to create a social business fund,” Prof Yunus said, adding that such an initiative would help address social issues including healthcare for the poor, while promoting entrepreneurship among youth, women, farmers, and the fishing community.During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a range of strategic areas, including the development of Bangladesh’s deep-sea fishing industry, expansion of mango and jackfruit exports, promotion of climate-resilient agri-entrepreneurship, and support for buffalo farmers in producing dairy products like mozzarella cheese.Prof Yunus invited the IFAD President to visit Bangladesh and send a team to explore potential opportunities ...

• 13 Oct 2025