W.O.W Market spotlights women-led businesses

The second edition of W.O.W Market (Women of Worth and Wonder) was held on Saturday at Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, bringing together women entrepreneurs, artisans and creators to showcase their products, connect with customers and grow their businesses.

Runa Khan, founder of Friendship, inaugurated the event as the chief guest, according to a press release.

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During the event, Runa visited the stalls and interacted with participating entrepreneurs, learning about their products, business journeys and experiences. Entrepreneurs also highlighted the role of platforms such as W.O.W Market in helping women-led businesses gain visibility and connect directly with customers.

Several entrepreneurs who participated in the inaugural edition returned this year, saying the platform had helped them showcase their products, build confidence and develop customer connections.

This year’s market is being held as part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Giving for Good Month. Each participating entrepreneur contributes Tk 3,000 towards their stall, with the full amount going to Mojar School, while all sales go directly to the entrepreneurs.

The marketplace features 30 stalls representing around 30 women entrepreneurs, offering handwoven and handmade clothing, jute and coconut husk crafts, homemade food products and other handcrafted items. Participating businesses include Dmart, Box of Ornaments, AURUM Bangladesh and Bene Bou, among others.

The first edition attracted more than 600 visitors and benefited over 50 women by providing opportunities to showcase their skills and businesses.

Shahana Akter of Karukaj, who participated last year, said, “I brought products made from jute and coconut husk from Barisal. Participating in this fair for the first time was a delight. Buyers’ appreciation encouraged me, and with opportunities like this, we can contribute to the country’s economy.”

Kaniz Fatema of DMART said, “Events like this create a positive attitude towards women. If women are given opportunities beyond their homes, they can contribute significantly to the economy.”

ActionAid and Acid Survivors Foundation are also participating in the event, strengthening its focus on women’s empowerment, inclusion and community impact.

Karthi VK, general manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, said, “W.O.W Market is built on the belief that when women are given the right platform, they can turn their creativity and skills into meaningful opportunities.”

“After the encouraging response to our first edition, we are delighted to bring W.O.W Market back with an even stronger purpose,” he said, adding that the initiative supports women entrepreneurs while contributing to Mojar School through Giving for Good.