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New Global Gateway Opportunities in Bangladesh – ICT and renewable energy on the rise
Under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, two major investment programmes are being prepared in Bangladesh, offering opportunities for Finnish companies in digital infrastructure, renewable energy, engineering, and expert services.
1. Digital Islands – Expanding Connectivity to Remote Communities
Led by the Government of Bangladesh with support from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the EU, the project aims to improve ICT access and digital services in isolated and climate-vulnerable coastal areas.
- Phase 1: 20 islands, 77 unions, 701 villages – approx. 2 million people
- Scope includes:
- Submarine, underground and aerial fibre cables
- Digital labs, technical resource centres, and telemedicine facilities
- Total budget: USD 86 million
- EIB: 50%
- Government of Bangladesh: USD 28 million
- EU: blended grant support
- Timeline: Implementation expected to begin in 2026
2. BREF – Supporting Solar, Wind and Storage Solutions
The Bangladesh Renewable Energy Facility (BREF) supports the deployment of solar and wind energy, and potentially energy storage, in collaboration with public utilities.
- Funding package:
- EUR 350 million EIB loan (EU guaranteed)
- EUR 45 million EU grant (including technical assistance)
- Additional EUR 350 million expected from Team Europe partners
- Technical assistance: Provided by GOPA since September 2025
- Pipeline: Around 10 projects under development
- Timeline: First tenders expected mid-2026
Opportunities for Finnish Companies
Finnish companies are encouraged to explore roles in:
- Supplying ICT and renewable energy technologies
- Designing, building and operating infrastructure
- Providing technical assistance and advisory services
Apply for Finnpartnership’s Business Partnership Support
Finnpartnership offers financial support for Finnish companies to:
- Identify local or international partners
- Launch pilot or reference projects in Bangladesh
- Explore feasibility and market entry
Contact:
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Global Gateway
The EU is mobilising billions in investment in developing markets which opens new business opportunities for Finnish companies.
