The Rural Microenterprise Transformation Project (RMTP), implemented by Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation, has significantly increased incomes and improved the livelihoods of more than 7.5 lakh families across the country.

The project has contributed to strengthening the rural economy by expanding agricultural value chains, enhancing food and nutrition security, and promoting microenterprise development.

The information was shared at the closing ceremony of the six-year RMTP, co-financed by International Fund for Agricultural Development and Danida, held at PKSF Bhaban-1 in the capital, according to a press release issued today.

PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan presided over the programme, while Financial Institutions Division Secretary Nazma Mobarek attended as the chief guest. IFAD Country Director Dr Valentine Achancho was present as the special guest.

PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader delivered the welcome address, and Deputy General Manager and RMTP Project Coordinator Md Habibur Rahman presented the project overview.

Addressing the event, Nazma Mobarek said RMTP has shown that meaningful progress in developing rural entrepreneurs and ensuring food security is possible through a proper combination of planning, innovation, and partnership.

Building on the success of the project, she said PKSF will soon launch another initiative titled “GREEN,” with financial support from IFAD.

Dr Valentine Achancho said RMTP is not only a successful initiative but also a proof of concept at scale, demonstrating that when finance, training, and market access are combined through strong institutions, they can deliver lasting transformation beyond the project period.

He added that the closing of RMTP marks a transition to a new level of ambition through continued collaboration and effective implementation.

Zakir Ahmed Khan said RMTP stands as a successful model for sustainable transformation in the rural economy, adding that its effective approaches will be expanded in both rural and urban contexts in the coming years.

Md Fazlul Kader said significant progress has been achieved through RMTP in expanding financial services for microentrepreneurs, introducing modern technologies, strengthening market linkages, and supporting branding and certification.

He reaffirmed PKSF’s commitment to ensuring sustainable development of microentrepreneurs by promoting decent working conditions, addressing risks, and enhancing skills.

According to project data, RMTP engaged over 7.5 lakh families through 90 agriculture-based value chain sub-projects.

Among participants, agricultural production increased by 66 percent, income rose by 49 percent, and profits grew by 41 percent.

At the event, four entrepreneurs supported by RMTP shared their success stories, saying the project helped them become job creators instead of job seekers by increasing production, boosting income, and expanding market access.

Several participants also received national recognition, while products such as cheese, beef pickles, and various vegetables produced under the project are now being exported, contributing to the country’s export potential.