The Micro Enterprise Loan (MEL) Program of ARS-Bangladesh aims to promote entrepreneurship, self-employment, and sustainable income generation among low-income individuals and small business owners. The program provides financial and technical support to micro-enterprises, enabling beneficiaries to establish, expand, and strengthen their businesses while improving their economic resilience.
Operating across the districts of Jashore, Khulna, Jhenaidah, Kushtia, Magura, Narail, Meherpur, Satkhira, and Chuadanga, the program supported 15,839 beneficiaries during the 2024–2025 fiscal year. The initiative provides loans and business development support for activities such as fish hatcheries, grocery shops, cycle parts businesses, medicine dispensaries, fertilizer and pesticide stores, tailoring enterprises, and other small-scale businesses.
Through the Micro Enterprise Loan Program, ARS-Bangladesh contributes to poverty reduction, employment creation, women’s economic participation, and the growth of local economies by empowering entrepreneurs with access to financial resources and business opportunities.