W.O.W Market returns to Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan

W.O.W Market, an initiative highlighting women entrepreneurs, artisans and creators, will return to Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan on September 19, bringing together women-led businesses for a day of entrepreneurship, creativity and community engagement.

The second edition of W.O.W Market, which stands for Women of Worth and Wonder, will be held from 10:30am to 9:30pm at the Ballroom on the 25th floor of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan.

The marketplace will feature 30 stalls representing around 40 women entrepreneurs. Visitors will find 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 initiative follows the first edition, which attracted more than 600 visitors and provided visibility and business opportunities to more than 50 women.

Organisers said the marketplace is intended not only as a platform for sales but also as an opportunity for participating entrepreneurs to meet customers, share the stories behind their products, build networks and increase awareness of their businesses.

Shahana Akter of Karukaj, who participated in last year’s event, said the fair provided encouragement after buyers appreciated products made from jute and coconut husk brought from Barisal.

Kaniz Fatema of DMART said such events can create opportunities for women to contribute more actively to the economy beyond their homes.

The 2026 edition will also include a charity component. Each participating entrepreneur will contribute BDT 3,000 towards their stall, with the full amount going to Mojar School, an initiative of Odommo Bangladesh Foundation. Sales generated by the entrepreneurs will go directly to the respective businesses.

ActionAid and the Acid Survivors Foundation will also participate in the event, adding a focus on women’s empowerment, inclusion and community engagement.

The initiative is being organised as part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Giving for Good Month, linking the marketplace with the hotel group’s wider community-focused activities.

Karthi VK, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, said the initiative aims to provide women with a platform to turn their creativity and skills into opportunities while supporting a community cause through Giving for Good.

The organisers expect more than 600 visitors, including entrepreneurs, families, professionals, shoppers and members of the wider community.

Under the theme “Where Women, Creativity & Purpose Come Together,” W.O.W Market 2026 is positioned as a platform for women to showcase their products, connect with customers and expand their businesses while contributing to a charitable initiative.