Bangladesh shines on global stage: ‘Pathao’ and ‘Shomvob’ named in Forbes Asia’s 100 to Watch 2025
Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem, two homegrown tech innovators – Pathao and Shomvob – have secured spots on the prestigious Forbes Asia 100 to Watch 2025 list, placing the country firmly on the map of Asia’s most promising startups.
The annual list, now in its fifth edition, spotlights emerging high-potential startups across the Asia-Pacific region that are redefining industries through innovation, scalability, and social impact.
This year, ventures from 16 countries made the cut with Bangladesh proudly represented by two dynamic digital disruptors.
Pathao: From ride-hailing to fintech powerhouse
Since its launch in 2015, Pathao has evolved from a ride-hailing pioneer into a full-stack urban tech platform. Headquartered in Dhaka and operating in Nepal, Pathao offers ride-sharing, food delivery, logistics, e-commerce, and fintech services, all through one app.
With over 6 million downloads and more than 70 million trips and orders fulfilled, Pathao is a household name in South Asia. Last year, it raised $12 million in a pre-Series B round led by VentureSouq, bringing its total funding to over $50 million.
Now, Pathao is doubling down on its fintech ambitions with Pathao Pay, a digital wallet, and Pay Later, a buy-now-pay-later service tailored for young professionals and small businesses.
“Pathao isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about powering everyday economic life,” said CEO Fahim Ahmed.
Shomvob: Powering the future of work
Founded in 2022 by Rifad Hossain, Naqib Muhammad Fayyaz, and Hasibur Rahman, Shomvob is revolutionising Bangladesh’s job and HR-tech landscape. The platform connects blue- and silver-collar workers with employment opportunities through a seamless digital experience — enabling users to build professional profiles, apply for jobs, upskill via online training, and engage directly with employers.
What sets Shomvob apart is its strong social mission: creating sustainable livelihoods for low-income women across the country. Backed by a $300,000 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2023 and a $1 million pre-seed round led by Singapore’s Cocoon Capital in May 2024, the startup is rapidly scaling its impact.
“Shomvob means ‘possible’ – and we’re proving that inclusive, tech-driven employment is not just possible, but profitable,” said CEO Rifad Hossain.
A new era for Bangladeshi startups
The inclusion of both startups in the Forbes Asia list underscores the growing maturity and global recognition of Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Both companies are also collaborating with international organisations like UNICEF, SwissContact, and Roots of Impact, amplifying their social and economic footprint.
As investor confidence grows and digital adoption soars, Pathao and Shomvob are not just watching the future, they’re building it.
Welcome to Asia’s startup A-list, Bangladesh. The world is watching.