Pioneer Insurance PLC organized a signing ceremony for the Comprehensive Business Continuity Insurance (BCI) Programme for Cottage, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (CMSMEs) of Bangladesh under the UNDP–SME Foundation Insurance Innovation Challenge Fund (IICF). The programme was formally opened by Syed Shahriyar Ahsan, Managing Director and CEO of Pioneer Insurance PLC, who highlighted the importance of inclusive insurance in strengthening the resilience of CMSMEs against unexpected disruptions.

The ceremony featured a presentation by K.M. Dastur & Company Limited (KMD) on the programme’s objectives, implementation approach and key features. This program is designed to provide affordable protection against climate and non-climate risks, including floods, cyclones, fire, earthquakes and other disruptions, with EMI-backed insurance model to support business continuity.

Following the presentation, agreements were signed by Pioneer Insurance PLC, Padakhep Manabik Unnayan Kendra, Centre for Development Innovation and Practices (CDIP), DESHA, RDRS Bangladesh and SOFTOGRAPH, marking the formal commencement of the programme. Under the partnership, Pioneer Insurance PLC will serve as the insurer, KMD will provide technical support, SOFTOGRAPH will develop the digital platform, and the participating MFIs will support outreach and enrollment. Representatives from UNDP and SME Foundation also attended the ceremony, reflecting the collaborative effort to expand inclusive business continuity protection for CMSMEs across Bangladesh.