Evaluating the Impact of Capacity Building Programs on Startup Growth: A Case Study of BetterStories Limited

Abstract

This study examines the impact of capacity-building programs implemented by BetterStories Limited on the growth and sustainability of startups in Bangladesh. BetterStories, a strategic consulting agency established in 2008, focuses on empowering startups, SMEs, and NGOs through tailored initiatives such as StartFund Bangladesh, TekSHOI Innovation Lab, and the GetFunded Initiative. These programs aim to enhance entrepreneurs’ capabilities in leadership, strategic planning, investment readiness, and fundraising. Using a qualitative research approach, the study collected primary data through semi-structured interviews with 14 startup founders across diverse sectors, complemented by secondary data from BetterStories' reports and evaluations. The research explores pre-program challenges faced by entrepreneurs, their experiences during the programs, and the post-program impact on their ventures. Findings indicate that participants greatly benefited from mentorship, practical workshops, and one-on-one advisory sessions, which improved their proposal development, investor pitching, and strategic decision-making skills. The programs fostered a collaborative learning environment, encouraging peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. Despite these successes, participants highlighted gaps in sustained post-program support, especially in mentorship, sector-specific training, and managing investor relations beyond initial funding. Accordingly, the study recommends that BetterStories adopt a comprehensive, lifecycle-based support model. Suggested enhancements include structured long-term mentorship, specialized learning tracks tailored to different industries, peer networking platforms, and advanced investor relations training to address the evolving needs of growing startups. The research underscores BetterStories Limited’s pivotal role in Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem by bridging critical knowledge and resource gaps. By implementing the recommended strategies, BetterStories can further bolster the sustainability and scalability of startups, contributing significantly to the country’s vision of becoming a trillion-dollar economy and achieving 'Smart Bangladesh 2041'. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, ecosystem enablers, and startups aiming to foster robust entrepreneurial development in emerging markets.