Early-stage investing in frontier markets like Bangladesh has long been plagued by excessive paperwork, lengthy due diligence processes, and coordination challenges. These are challenges Bangladesh Angels Network (BAN), Bangladesh's first and largest angel investment platform, aims to tackle with its newly launched digital investment platform by streamlining the entire investment cycle. BAN is initially starting with a digital subscription model, replacing what was previously a cumbersome, manual process, with plans to introduce Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) via partner platforms in the near future.
The platform creates a centralized hub where investors can source and discover deals, review live opportunities, join investor groups, track investments and connect directly with founders, reducing friction in the investment process. For startups, it centralizes fundraising, increases visibility and facilitates mentorship connections.
"By enhancing deal accessibility, information transparency and operational efficiency, the platform helps investors and entrepreneurs navigate the funding raising process with greater ease," says Ivy Huq Russell, BAN's chief executive. "This unlocks new capital flows for Bangladesh's startup ecosystem, especially from our NRBs. Once capital control in Bangladesh is relaxed as discussed at the Investment Summit 2025, our members will be able to directly invest through the Angel Network platform.”
The network has already demonstrated significant impact and claims to have facilitated more than 100 transactions, channeling $11m into early-stage startups. BAN focuses on digital, tech-driven ventures led by full-time founders who have generated revenue but not yet achieved product-market fit. Typical investments range from $50,000 to $500,000 in pre-seed to seed rounds, with most deals falling between $100,000 and $200,000. Through its recent partnership with UCB Investments, BAN says it may now support deals up to $1 million for market-ready startups.
The platform arrives as BAN plans to register in SG to make their Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) payments from participating investors much easier. By Q3/Q4, the network plans to help diversify its 600+ members with founders from South and South-East Asia, with partnerships already in motion with Singapore based Angel and Investment Networks.
BAN officials note that the platform will support cross-border investments and learning opportunities for founders, streamline the creation of SPVs with partners, and build a pipeline for future venture funding. In emerging markets where institutional capital remains scarce, such digital platforms, done right, could prove crucial for mobilizing early-stage investment at scale.
