Two Bangladeshi startups—Pathao and Shomvob—have earned a place on the prestigious Forbes Asia “100 to Watch” 2025 list, a recognition that highlights promising small and medium-sized companies across the Asia-Pacific region.
This year’s list features companies from 16 countries and territories, with India leading with 18 entries, followed by Singapore and Japan with 14 each. While Bangladesh’s representation is modest, the inclusion of two startups underscores the country’s growing presence in the regional tech ecosystem.
Pathao: A Decade of Growth
Founded in 2015, Pathao has evolved from a delivery service into one of Bangladesh’s leading digital platforms, offering ride-hailing, food delivery, logistics, e-commerce, and fintech solutions. The company has reportedly surpassed 6 million app downloads and completed more than 70 million rides and orders across Bangladesh and Nepal.
Pathao was listed under the Consumer Technology category. According to Forbes, the company raised $12 million in a pre-series B round last year, led by VentureSouq, bringing its total funding to more than $50 million. The latest investment is being directed toward expanding its fintech offerings, including Pathao Pay, a digital wallet, and Pay Later services.
“Pathao’s inclusion in the Forbes Asia 100 to Watch is a recognition of our enduring commitment to building products that our customers love and are happy to pay for,” said Fahim Ahmed, CEO of Pathao. 
Shomvob: Redefining Employment Access
Launched in 2022, Shomvob aims to democratize access to employment in Bangladesh. Founded by CEO Rifad Hossain, the platform allows job seekers to create digital profiles, apply for jobs, and access online training programs. Employers, meanwhile, can use Shomvob to manage recruitment, review candidates, and even handle payroll outsourcing.
Shomvob initially focused on creating work opportunities for low-income women and has since expanded its reach. The company received a $300,000 grant from the Gates Foundation in 2023 and secured $1 million in pre-seed funding in May 2024, led by Singapore-based Cocoon Capital.
Forbes’ Selection Process
The “100 to Watch” list is compiled through a combination of online submissions and nominations from accelerators, incubators, venture capital firms, and universities. Forbes evaluates candidates based on innovation, industry impact, business model, revenue growth, and funding potential. Eligible companies must be privately held, headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, and have no more than $50 million in annual revenue or $100 million in funding.
With Pathao’s decade-long journey and Shomvob’s early but impactful rise, Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem is gaining international visibility—signaling a growing wave of innovation and ambition from the country.
