Laila is a member of a local cooperative in Sylhet, Bangladesh where she owns a cattle farm and practices beef fattening. After purchasing bulls to be sold during Eid-Ul-Adha, the most lucrative season for cattle sales, Laila grew concerned that COVID-19 restrictions would stop her from selling her mature bulls. Determined to make a sale, Laila began looking for creative ways to safely conduct business. It was then that Laila participated in an iDE-sponsored online marketing training and took the advice to use social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to advertise her cattle. Being an active Facebook user, Laila instantly uploaded pictures of the bulls with the price she wanted for them. To Laila’s delight, in a short amount of time, all her bulls were sold giving her a profit margin of 27%. When asked what advice she has for other entrepreneurs, Laila said, “Entrepreneurs need to be informed about exploring different sales channels or methods of marketing which requires a risk taking mentality.”
Laila is part of a larger iDE program in Bangladesh that is powering entrepreneurs and building resilient market systems that link smallholder producers to economic opportunities.
What's Next for Laila
Laila’s long-time goal is to build a mini farm. The farm's financial risk management is an area where she is seeking guidance to ensure the expected return for her investment. Laila says, “I wish to see a van in front of my farm for collecting and selling milk to the bigger market. If I receive proper training and support, I am certain I can make this wish of mine come true.”
Laila Sultana is holding a 40 Under 40 certificate presented to her by the iDE Bangladesh management team for exemplifying the highest qualities of entrepreneurship: business savvy, courage, community-mindedness, innovation, leadership, and grit. Laila got her start in the livestock sector by purchasing one cow which she paid for by saving 5 cents a day for 3 years, combined with a microfinance loan.
“If anyone in Bangladesh becomes a Laila following my story then my happiness will touch the sky” — Laila Sultana
Laila participated in an iDE-sponsored online marketing training and took the advice to use social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to advertise her cattle.
Laila's Details
Country
- Bangladesh
Sector
- Agriculture
Entrepreneur Impact
- Production
Ecosystem Impact
- Food & Nutrition Security
- Local Economic Development
Country Profile
- 133/189
Human Development Index (HDI) Rank
- 14%
Poverty Rate
- 166 Million People
Population
iDE was started as a radical idea that business is a solution to move people out of poverty. 40 years later, we still don't give things away. We create long term change by powering entrepreneurs to end poverty for their families and communities.
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